MADAM - It is troubling that Caroline Stephens in unable to differentiate between geographical climate variations and climate change.

The idea that we are “creating” habitats is also wrong.

We have been returning areas to their natural condition because wetland is one of the best responses to long-term flooding issues.

Wetland can soak up water.

Dredging waterways tends to increase flooding in the longer term, it is not a solution.

Development on flood plains was wholly misguided. We need to recognise the mistake and act to reduce inappropriate development and find sustainable solutions for people in flood zones. We can change to sustainable energy supplies that are not dependent on precariously long supply chains or the whims of repressive governments.

The position of the UK as a major importer of fuel leaves us vulnerable to price rises or loss of supply — we should act to change this.

Caroline Stephens and her party’s position leaves the UK in a position of weakness — to fuel supply loss, to increased flooding, to further pollution and increased severe weather events.

It’s also hard to see how UKIP’s desire to isolate us from our major trading partners is going to help us in any way.

Sarah Lunnon

Gloucestershire county councillor

(Green, Stroud central)