Sir, I am dismayed to hear that another high-profile trial, that of Abu Hamza, is to take place at the Old Bailey (report, October 20). This will involve more screaming sirens escorting prisoner convoys, more gridlock and more armour-clad police officers toting automatic weapons.

Either all this paraphernalia is necessary, in which case it is criminally irresponsible to hold these show trials in Central London, or it is not and this is all part of the show-trial scenario, designed to impress the public with our Government’s diligence in dealing with religious extremists.

There is a perfectly serviceable, purpose-built Crown Court next to Belmarsh high-security jail to which it is connected by a tunnel. Holding the trial there would in no way prejudice the justice being administered. It would also avoid the real possibility of guns being discharged on London streets with the huge danger of death and injury to innocent bystanders.

Yours, etc,
ADRIAN THOMS,
2 Butterys Court,
46a Normandy Street,
Alton, Hampshire GU34 1DE.
October 20.

From Mr Alistair McBay

Sir, The array of 16 counts that Abu Hamza now faces clearly demonstrates that such religious extremists can be charged without the need for any specific charge of incitement to religious hatred. The four charges that he faces under the Public Order Act 1986, of “using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour with the intention of stirring up racial hatred”, would seem to render unnecessary such a separate and specific offence.

I urge the Home Secretary to drop his plans to introduce it.

Yours faithfully,
ALISTAIR McBAY,
Lawmuirview, Glenalmond Road,
Methven, Perth PH1 3SZ.
October 20.

Explore Letters

• Feedback