4 DECEMBER 2004, Page 79

Q. Perhaps I can assist from the North of England

with his little Australian 'problem' (20 November). As someone whose legal career has spanned both Australian immigration and criminal law (yes, they are discrete areas of law), I am happy to advise that the solution is easy. simply needs to phone the 'Outstanding Warrants' section of the State or Territory police service in which he was charged and ask if there are any warrants in his name. If not, then 'T is in the clear. If yes, then New Zealand is nice at this time of year.

M.G., Edgecliff, NSW, Australia

A. Thank you so much for your considerate letter.

You can write to Dear Mary c/o The Spectator, 56 Doughty Street, London WCI 2LL.