ADAM Walker says that as a teacher he has “always sought to bring out the best in all students regardless of race, colour or creed” as though this was in some way unusual (HAS, Echo 28).

But this is simply an expectation of all teachers.

Promoting equality and diversity in schools is at the heart of the General Teaching Council’s Professional Code of Conduct and Practice for teachers.

Unfortunately, the BNP, to which Mr Walker belongs, is a racist and fascist organisation.

This is untenable for a teacher, since the policies and positions of the BNP are incompatible with the ethos and values of teaching.

Racism and fascism are the antithesis of the aims of education which strives for the liberation of every learner’s potential, irrespective of age, class, gender, sexual orientation, disability, race or religion.

The National Union of Teachers calls on the Government to give consideration to making membership of the BNP incompatible with registration as a qualified teacher or lecturer, in line with policy for the police.

If, as Mr Walker claims, he believes in diversity of opinion and equality, and he agrees with the GTC’s aims of promoting equality and diversity, he should resign from the BNP immediately.

Tony Dowling, Membership Secretary, Gateshead NUT.