ONE has to marvel at John Gilmore’s ability to turn the debate about the wearing of the burka into a condemnation of the closing of the collieries (HAS, Aug 18).

Whilst I fully accept that John’s political views are sincerely and deeply felt, it is surprising that as a champion of the oppressed and the underdog he is unable to recognise the legitimacy of the argument that the burka and the niqab are symbols of the oppression of women by a male dominated culture.

Has he not given any thought to the possibility that the two women he saw in niqabs during his holiday in North Westminster may have been doing so for reasons which have nothing to do with freedom of choice, a right which continues to be a struggle for women the world over?

Jane Booth, Bishop Auckland