RECENTLY Mumsnet asked the political leaders which cartoon character they most identified with.

David Cameron said he was most like Thomas the Tank engine, a reliable train who always saves the day. Nick Clegg felt he was like the cuddly Paddington bear.

The Labour leader Ed Miliband felt he would be a great Captain Barnacles, perhaps showing a tenacious streak.

Continuing with the kindergarten theme we have an admission from the shadow chancellor Ed Balls.

The would be Chancellor of the Exchequer confessed that he cannot do basic maths and relies on his mother-in-law to do his difficult sums for him.

SUSAN THOMAS Magdalen Road, Oxford