Letter: Cardinal's point

Tom Gallagher is entitled to disagree with Cardinal Keith O'Brien on what he terms the "Megrahi affair" (Comment, 5 November).

However, to imply that in raising the issue the way he did that he lacks concern with regard to Christian communities in the Middle East, following the massacre of Christians in Baghdad, is bizarre, to say the least.

This is a cheap shot unworthy of someone occupying the position he does within academe. Calling for an inquiry into the Megrahi conviction may be many things but the actions of an "elite figure" it is not. It is surely the role of Scotland's Cardinal to speak out for justice and peace as he deems fit, even if that brings him into conflict with the establishment and politicians of all parties.

I can agree with Mr Gallagher on the need to combat "religious fanaticism". Surely that can best be done through the promotion of inter-faith dialogue across all faith communities. In this regard the Cardinal deserves praise, not opprobrium, for his record.

Jim Eadie

SNP Candidate for Edinburgh Southern

Montague Street

Edinburgh