4 FEBRUARY 1978, Page 18

Mr Heath

Sir: I was most surprised and distressed to read such a scathing editorial on Mr Heath, who still retains the respect of many in the Conservative Party. The level of the argument put forward can have done little to enhance the reputation of your journal.

Like it or not, Mr Heath has remained very much in the public eye — a position which he rightly deserves — and for that reason, any sign of reconciliation with Mrs Thatcher can only strengthen the internal unity of the party and its image in the country. Your remarks about Mr. Heath's recent books — two of which have become bestsellers — are beneath contempt. Trevor P. Jarman 21 Amdiffe Road, West Park, Leeds