Letter: Free speech for all

Saturday 06 November 1999 19:02 EST

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JACK STRAW has reprimanded Sir David Ramsbotham, the Chief Inspector of Prisons, for his comments on the murderers of James Bulger ("Prison watchdog facing the sack", 31 October). I also disagree with Sir David's comments, but he has a right of free speech. The whole point of human rights is that they apply equally to all, irrespective of job, income or social position. Mr Straw, and other people, seem to have forgotten the words of Voltaire: "I disagree with what you say but will defend, to the death, your right to say it."

MARC HURSTFIELD

Northfleet, Kent

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