13 NOVEMBER 1976, Page 17

Mr Short and Mr Callaghan

Sir: The report by Richard West in your issue of 30 October of a comment I am alleged to have made about the Prime Minister is inaccurate and, one must assume, maliciously so, because the comment, made In a completely private conversation, was in fact made by me about one of Mr Callaghan's political opponents. Fortunately a third party was present. If your paper and Mr West wish to play fast and loose with the civilised rules which govern relations between politicians and the press you might at least take the trouble to get the facts right.

I have complete confidence in the Prime Minister and his government to lead this Country out of its present difficulties. Edward Short

28 Lupus Street, London SW1