2 JUNE 1979, Page 21

Patton precept

Sir: With respect to Mr Christopher Walker's most interesting article, 'The new Irish terrorism', those who suggest the application of stronger measures against the Provisional IRA would do well to ponder on the advice General Patton gave when some of his colleagues were recommending reprisals against German prisoners of war. 'Never', said Patton, 'get yourself involved in a pissing match against a skunk'.

R. F. Mortimer Budds Farm, Burghclere, Newbury