In praise of Palumbo
From The Hon. Mrs James Butler Sir: Sadakat Kadri should be more careful with his flimsy accusations ('Ministry of drugs', 30 October). Young James Palumbo is an entrepreneur, and his success has obviously sparked great jealousy among the establishment. I don't know him well, but the few times he has been in my company as a chum of one of our children, I have found him hugely curious, observant and extremely loyal: three qualities quite unique in the English male.
When he started the Ministry of Sound eight years ago, London had none of the social dynamism it has now, and I have always credited James with envisaging the possibilities of this city's untapped nightlife.
As for Mr Kadri's opening line, 'As trend-setters go, James Palumbo is a strange fish', what does this mean? He works very, very hard and takes no tea- breaks. Yes, this is a strange fish because it has moral fibre: hard work is rewarded.
And then: 'It's a rave mausoleum.' And what is Boodle's or White's? None of this older generation addresses the damage done by alcohol. I have experience of the effects of this disease.
At least you mentioned his strength of character, a rarity these days. He's a man with extraordinary standards and discipline — qualities sorely lacking today.
Jennifer Butler
355 Kings Road, London SW3
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