8 SEPTEMBER 1973, Page 4

Ireland and the EEC

Sir: It's an ill wind (or bomb) that blows no good at all. All those very necessary controls on entry from Ireland which you suggest will probably be forced on a reluctant Government by the pressure of opinion in the country and in their Party. The Government will be reluctant because any such controls are contrary to the spirit and probably to the letter of the infamous Treaty of Rome, which enjoins freedom of movement between all member Sates.

When Cabinet and Parliament learn that to take action necessary for the good of the British people through repealing part of the European Communities Act "doesn't hurt at all" it will seem easier next time. Freedom of movement is preventing us from exercising proper security. The Common Agricultural Policy prevents the import of food which might help reduce our cost of living. Neither of these European policies need continue one day after this or any future Parliament decides they should not.

Andrew Turek Hertford College, Cambridge