5 NOVEMBER 1965, Page 15

The Academic in Office SIR, —In his warm and friendly portrait

of Richard Crossman (Spectator, October 29) Mr. Alan Watkins failed to make it clear that in 1948 Mr. Crossman was prepared not only to jeopardise but also to jettison his political career by opposing the leaders of his own party in their attitude to Israel. And by so doing, to save the honour of England.