I COMPLETELY agree with R G Spencer in his masterly exposition of the English and Napoleonic concepts of justice and support his call for caution in European dealings (You Say, June 19).
However, he fails to make quite clear that the basic right in English Law for individuals to do anything not forbidden by law does not extend to corporations or societies.
These can only do what the law empowers them to do. A decision or action not specifically authorised by law is said to be "ultra vires" (exceeding powers) and is devoid of legality.
Chairmen, secretaries and officials of small organisations need to constantly bear this in mind and often have difficulty in explaining to individual members.
JOHN HINTON, Worcester.
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