We may all wonder what’s in the water in Canberra as elected politicians receive all available party help before an election only to betray all commitments afterwards as the independents’ ranks unethically swell. Allegra Spender is the latest to backstab her backer Simon Holmes a Court, demonstrating a local Canberra climate change that will not be to his liking (“Spender’s rise not a solo run”, DT, 24/10). With Lidia Thorpe’s inflammatory behaviour being tolerated, as well as the religious, racial and political disorder on our streets because of far off wars, it is surely time for genuine leadership to say “no more”. Anthony Albanese should call a double dissolution election to erase all the Canberra deadwood. This would be courageous, heroic and inspiring but a refreshing unity might surely arise in the aftermath. Those enlisting candidates for their parties must learn from Lidia Thorpe and ensure their performance contracts are detailed (to the point of splitting hairs). Alan Sexton, North Parramatta 25Oct2024