6 APRIL 1996, Page 25

Bilateral internment

Sir: Andrew Roberts continues to evade the issue (Letters, 30 March). As Conor Cruise O'Brien — whom he quoted misleadingly — has explained in numerous articles and interviews, while Irish terrorism can be defeated only by internment, it is vital that it be applied both sides of the border, even- handedly between Republican and loyalist paramilitaries and not until Irish public opinion is behind it. As Sean O'Callaghan forcefully demonstrated (Letters, 23 March), the IRA will be the only gainers if the British Government introduces intern- ment unilaterally.

On a minor and personal note, might I demur at Mr Roberts's award to me of the title 'Mrs'? I am neither married nor a cook.

Ruth Dudley Edwards

40 Pope's Lane, London W5