I hope that you will allow me to make some points of clarification with respect to last week s front page story (Spy cameras on the Heath, H&H May 1). It is hoped that the camera will help reduce crime and anti-social behaviour on the Heath. We know that

I hope that you will allow me to make some points of clarification with respect to last week's front page story (Spy cameras on the Heath, H&H May 1).

It is hoped that the camera will help reduce crime and anti-social behaviour on the Heath. We know that some areas on the Heath attract troublemakers at certain times, which has the effect of making those areas less welcoming to the public than they should be.

I am here referring to Bank Holiday fairs and anti-social behaviour particularly in the Parliament Hill area.

The purpose of the camera is not to "spy" on people. It will not be used covertly, but will be deployed in a highly visible way. Its main purpose is to deter the commission of criminal offences.

There are absolutely no plans to use the camera on West Heath. The City of London works very closely with the lesbian and gay communities to resolve the difficulties associated with West Heath.

Any changes to current policies for that part of the Heath would be discussed first.

The use of the camera is part of the effort to make the Heath Constabulary's work more effective.

We want the Heath to be a crime-free zone. The hope is that with reasonable, overt and sensible use modern technology will contribute to achieving that.

Bob Hall

Chairman, Hampstead Heath Management Committee