13 NOVEMBER 1982, Page 19

Sam White, OBE

Sir: I thank Alexander Chancellor for his kind reference to me in last week's Notebook but I must correct his version of what happened over my OBE award. This was never withdrawn but only delayed. The delay as it turned out was entirely a technical one. As for the 'Foreign Office mandarins' who might have opposed it, I only know that several who may fit this description sent their congratulations when the award was announced.

Sam White

67 rue de Grenelle, Paris, France