HIKING AND POLITICS
[To the Editor of THE SPECTATOR.] SIR,—I have just read with surprise and some indignation the article, " Hiking and Politics," in The Spectator of August 17th. On behalf of the Federation of Rambling Clubs (Lon- don) and the particular Club to which I belong, the Southern Pathfinders (which was mentioned in a very different context in your recent review of the National Trust's report) I wish to state with all possible emphasis that the alleged connexion between hiking and Left Wing politics is a grotesque mis- representation. And I am sure that in saying this I speak also for the hundred or more Youth Hostel members of differing views, classes and ages, I know personally, and many thousands besides.
It has been the constant aim of both the leaders and mem- bers of the open air movement misdescribed by the stunt Press as hikers to hold aloof from politics. Of course, we include among our members people of various opinions. As Englishmen we believe in variety of opinion and freedom to express it. But as a movement we profess no political creed. We " want no tricks save only the one trick of courage and the will to stand alone." Simplicity, self-reliance, physical and financial, hardihood, friendliness, a certain gaiety of spirit, are what we seek. If these are going to breed revolu- tion in England, England must indeed be in a bad way !—I am, Sir, &c., HERBERT GAM] FF. The Plain House, Chipstead, Surrey.
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