LORD Taylor of Warwick might usefully reflect on the fact, that during 1939-45, many millions of British men and women of all races and religions, made considerable sacrifices in order to maintain the right to free speech.

The remarks of John Townend, MP, were rather silly and he was nave if he believed that Alastair Campbell and his spin doctors were not waiting to seize on such indiscretions, in order to seemingly play the "race card".

They could count on the Commission for Racial Equality and the Race Relations Industry - ever anxious to justify their existence and to jump on the bandwagon.

Free speech is a safety valve. It is the height of folly to spread lies on the subject of immigration, while attempting to stifle debate.

In any case, the vast majority of bogus asylum seekers are of Caucasian origin.

Lord Taylor has the opportunity to confirm his loyalty to the Conservative Party in joining with members from ethnic communities and also prospective parliamentary candidates, in telling the truth about Conservative Party policies on race.

He might also use his considerable skills and knowledge in leading debates on the critical importance of effective immigration controls and also on the integration of ethnic folk into our local communities.

C J WAREING, County Councillor, Redditch Crabbs Cross Division.