DENIAL is one thing, but ignorance of the facts is something else.

The Home Secretary has a range of powers and responsibilities. Border security is a principal concern and is always a politically sensitive issue that requires responsible action.

I am always suspicious when blame is used as an excuse by those who have responsibility and should be accountable for what they do.

In this current debacle, there is confusion and the lines of communication are blurred between the minister and the civil servant.

Civil servants, including the Head of the Borders Agency, report to a number of ministers and, in this instance, the Home Secretary, Theresa May.

I find it difficult to believe that she did not know of any relaxation of checks at UK airports.

There is growing suspicion is that it was part of a cost-cutting reduction in regulation that went horribly wrong.

An independent inquiry might throw some light on the issues. On the one hand we have a very experienced civil servant with impeccable service, who has reported to several Home Secretaries without any cause for concern, and on the other, the high profile politician, who has lost sight and control of her government brief.

We cannot accept the situation in which the Home Secretary is unable to account for those entering the UK who might have presented a risk to security.

Bernie Walsh, Coxhoe.