29 DECEMBER 2001, Page 27

From Mr Michael Leggatt

Sir: Petronella Wyatt is, I'm sure, aware that 'anti-Semitism' is invoked not just when real prejudice occurs, but also whenever Israel or a Jewish political opinion is criticised. Is there then to be no view critical of Israel without this accusation?

The last paragraph of her article is sad and describes quite inexcusable behaviour to a child, but did she see Melanie Phillips on Question Time admitting, when pushed by Will Self for an answer, that if there were war between Israel and the UK, she would leave the UK? Muslims aren't the only ones more loyal to their religion than to the country where they live.

Michael Le xatt

Peterborough, Cambridgeshire