Letter: Witness to tyranny
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir: I wonder if other readers were embarrassed by the naivety and parochialism of Hilary Walker's letter (8 December) suggesting that Mr Straw should make peace with the Chilean authorities so the Scouts' Jamboree should not be disrupted.
As an ex-scout who attended a jamboree, a youth leader, and a teacher I was genuinely shocked that a responsible adult could make such a misguided appeal.
Mr Straw's decision on the extradition of General Pinochet will have a profound effect on how abuse of human rights is viewed and dealt with around the world. The ex-dictator is accused of instigating the torture and murder of innocent people. To imply that this should be put aside so some youngsters can go on a camping holiday is offensive.
I hope the Jamboree goes ahead unimpeded and youngsters return home with a strong sense of being part of a world community. But mainly I hope their experience, whether they can attend or not, gives them a better perspective of what is really important.
PATRICK IMRIE
Wallington, Surrey
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments