APPARENTLY, Roger M Barrett is incapable of understanding that we are, virtually, in a state of war against both internal crime and external terror (Letters, Monday March 28).

In such a situation as we find ourselves, it is necessary to curtail the freedom of the subject to some extent, in order to protect life and limb. I am sure that Tony Blair was absolutely sincere so far as the anti-terrorism Bill was concerned.

The fact that we are now inadequately protected against the evil machinations of Osama bin Laden and his al Qaida villains and others is entirely the fault of the unelected House of Lords.

D E MARGRETT,

Worceste