13 MAY 2000, Page 28

From Mr Michael E. Stevens Sir: Michael Duffy is correct

in pointing out that the Australian media and intelligentsia are probably the most politically correct in the English-speaking world.

Truth and reason are simply ignored and anyone who disagrees with the currently fashionable lie is either eccentric (if one has a university degree) or a redneck and racist (if one does not).

The only way to get a balanced view of local and foreign issues is to read foreign newspapers and magazines. I hope our self- appointed progressives never obtain the power to ban The Spectator.

New South Wales, Australia