1 JUNE 2002, Page 28

From Mr Michael Fabri cant, MP Sir: Oh, how I

normally enjoy reading Matthew Parris's always thoughtful and sometimes provocative articles in The Spectator.

Last week, however, he went too far. His article on cities and city status was a veritable gazetteer of city names. Every city is mentioned; every town hoping for city status is listed. He carefully argues the advantages of town status.

But the article cannot be taken seriously. It is a cruel hoax. No article on cities can omit to mention that gem of loveliness which boasts among other things a cathedral that has just celebrated 1,300 years since its foundation. Yet Mr Parris does.

How could he have left out mention of the City of Lichfield?

Michael Fabricant

Member of Parliament for Lichfield. House of Commons, London SW I