Don't forget to write

15 December 2010

They say: Asking my MP to do anything is a waste of time - they don't take any notice.

You say: Some are like that. But even the laziest or craziest know they can't ignore real pressure from their constituents.

They say: By pressure you mean the old send-a-postcard trick?

You say: Well, writing your own letters is better - but postcards help too. Friends of the Earth supporters have won some nifty campaigns this way.

They say: Such as?

You say: Forcing big companies to clean up their act, a new law to protect our countryside. And the reason your council will collect rubbish from your doorstep to recycle it is largely thanks to 5,000 people writing letters to their MPs.

They say: So you need thousands of people writing letters to make a difference.

You say: No. If an MP gets five letters on a subject it's a big deal (though obviously more is better). So a handful of your neighbours could kick your MP's ass by writing letters with a personal touch.

They say: I haven't got time to write a letter to my mum, let alone my MP.

You say: It doesn't have to be your life story - just be clear about what you want them to do. Failing that, an email or postcard.

They say: I bet MPs could paper their second homes with cards from pressure groups.

You say: They might say a bulging mailbag is the work of a few eco-nuts. But in the end even the stubborn ones have to admit that you can't orchestrate a big campaign unless lots of people agree with you....You've gone quiet.

They say: I have to admit I don't even know who my MP is.

You say: Easy. Got to www.thebigask.com, type your postcode in and bingo - you can email your MP.

They say: So how many people in this pub do you think will go home and write to their MP about climate change?

You say: You, for one.