THE Northern Echo has given space to two prophets of doom recently. Fair enough, but they should be answered.

One is a regular columnist and the other has recently written interesting letters. I am referring to Peter Mullen and John Riseley.

Rev Mullen writes more on his hostility to Muslims. He sees the word terrorist and seems to forget other examples of terrorism exist.

Surely, evil psychopaths should be prevented from doing harm and I’m sure the adherents of the Muslim religion will have their fair share – as will others.

Mr Riseley sees migration here as something which inevitably will drag us down to a much lower standard of living.

I acknowledge that migration presents problems to countries migrants leave, which may need their skills, and host countries which could be placed at an economic disadvantage with their arrival.

My main observation from the immigrants we have had during my lifetime is the rich variation of culture we enjoy with their arrival.

My expectation of the future is that we can make it a good one and there is space for Muslims and immigrants in it.

G Bulmer, Billingham

WHILE our government argues between itself over whether or not to bomb our enemy, I worry the continuous dialogue will detract from the element of surprise any campaign will have.

Or perhaps this is not important?

The French reacted within hours but it takes us months to do anything and we still seem get it wrong. No doubt some do-gooder out there will slate me for suggesting this and would prefer to bury their head in the sand.

Well that’s all right – as long as you still have one.

John Cumberland, Rushyford