If elected, BNP would undermine democracy and destroy personal freedoms

You considered it appropriate to run an advertisement for the BNP. We were told that this was evidence of our open, egalitarian and democratic society, where freedom of speech and expression are sacrosanct. A classic mistake of those who believe in l

You considered it appropriate to run an advertisement for the BNP. We were told that this was evidence of our "open, egalitarian and democratic society, where freedom of speech and expression are sacrosanct."

A classic mistake of those who believe in liberal democracy is failing to understand that sometimes the system needs defending from itself.

There are political parties whose reason d'etre is to undermine democracy and destroy personal freedoms once elected. By all means allow them to organise and stand for election but never offer them legitimacy or support.

I am sure that the vast majority of readers and journalists dedicated to this paper would appreciate it if the management would give to charity the monies from the BNP and refuse to run their ads.

GABRIEL HERMAN

Frognal Lane, NW3

IT is deplorable that a respected local paper should take an advert from an organisation that seeks to spread division and hate in our community. I trust that you will now provide an editorial assurance that this will never be repeated.

keith Flett

President, Haringey TUC