June 1st 2014

Dear Sir,

As disturbing as it is to hear a remark over heard, of a surprisingly offensive nature, one must cling to the basic bed rock of a democracy, freedom of speech. We hear horrendous tales of people being tortured and hauled into prison, never to be seen again, because they either had the courage to say what they said or, what they said, was overheard.

I doubt if there is any one of us on this Island or in the world for that matter, who should not think very carefully before casting the first stone. To put the situation in perspective and hopefully understanding. If the situation was reversed, I am sure, both men would want to come together, one to express apologies and the other to forgive. So let it be. That is simply: The right thing to do.

With all our personal freedoms seemingly being whittled away in our lives today, we must guard our democracy with all our energy. As once described by me in a previous letter concerning free speech “Down with The Queen” in England, would incur laughter and a sardonic smile in Hyde Park, London. So ... hopefully the Government can move on to the urgent and vital problems now, that need to be dealt with like yesterday!

DIANA WILLIAMS