I was surprised by John Studholme’s letter (June 25, 'Europe more peaceful now') to learn the European Union has been solely responsible for peace in Europe since 1952 and that there is no evidence to support Mr Storey’s view that Germany or any other country wants a single government for Europe.

On the first point I would remind him it has been the function of Nato to maintain the peace in Europe and on the second point, does the European flag and anthem not provide a clue?

The EU’s apparent gift at spreading peace throughout Europe sits uneasily with its attempted expansion into the Ukraine and confrontation with Russia.

There is no proven mechanism in place for any member state to leave the EU and with 'ever closer union' it will be impossible. However, not to worry, as the intended Euro army (yes, it is envisaged) would doubtless be able to ensure peace on its terms.

Angela Merkel is the arbiter in Europe and the outcome of her immense patience and skill will be the dominance of Germany – probably not Greece or Latvia, for example.

Regarding your writer’s confidence on the integrity of Europe’s control over its finances, I have always understood that the EU auditors have, themselves, admitted they have been unable to finalise the accounts.

On reading John Studholme’s assertion that the 2013 accounts were fully in order and had been for the last seven years I asked Westmorland and Lonsdale Tim Farron if he would kindly seek an answer for me.

I now have a letter, dated July 13, 2015, from the Rt Hon David Lidington MP, Minister for Europe, from which I quote the following: “The European Court of Auditors’ report on the management of the 2013 EU budget was published in November 2014. The UK voted against discharge (final approval of the annual UK budget, following the audit and finalisation of the annual accounts) of this budget on 17 February, in line with our position over the last three years.”

and: “I share your constituent’s concern that the European Court of Auditors has been unable to give EU budget expenditure an unqualified Statement of Assurance since 1994. This is unacceptable and undermines the credibility of EU spending”.

John Hill

Sedbergh