6 IN answer to N Taylor, who claimed America was a reluctant ally in the Second World War, I have to say that you wouldn't have thought so, judging by their Hollywood propaganda machine.

During the First World War, America hesitated to enter the war until the sinking of the Lusitania with the loss of 124 American passengers. America also hesitated in the Second World War until Japan attacked their bases in Pearl Harbour.

And you wouldn't think America's involvement was very beneficial if you happen to be one of the thousands of Latin Americans who were imprisoned, tortured, raped or murdered by tyrannical governments that were backed and aided by America.

And it benefited the innocent victims no end, when America bombed Libya or when the US army surreptitiously invaded Grenada.

Sometimes one is forgiven for thinking that Britain has become the 51 state.

MR L SPITERI,

Worcester.