DEAR EDITOR, - Whether or not you agree with Cllr John Griffiths' view that corporal punishment should be reintroduced against children in schools and the home, he is entitled to his view and should have the right to express it.

The motion submitted by Cllrs Watson, Perkins, Llewellyn and Stoddart calling for his removal from office for the offence of speaking his mind is reminiscent of George Orwell's 1984. This is an insult to free speech and an attack on democracy. If this sanctimonious foursome get their way we might as well shut down Government and let the thought police take over.

SIMON E. DAVIES 3 Leven Close, Hook.