THOMAS BALL (HAS, Feb 20) has completely misunderstood my previous letter (HAS Feb 16). I was not suggesting that any letters should not have been published – long may we continue to “Hear All Sides”.
I was merely pointing out the absurdity of complaining that you are not allowed to say something, and then saying it – thereby demonstrating that you ARE allowed to say it!
“Political correctness” – if it even exists – clearly does not amount to “suppression of free speech” as Mr Ball has alleged, though I hope he agrees that it is a good thing that certain racist, homophobic and misogynist terms of abuse are no longer deemed acceptable.
Mr Ball is even free to present complete garbage as “fact”, for example his assertion that Christians who wish to adopt children must hide their faith, and that same-sex couples are given priority.
I hope that no one, gay or straight, Christian or otherwise, who is considering adoption will be put off by these entirely unfounded claims.
Pete Winstanley, Durham.
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