As I write, we are clearly on the brink of war. At this time our thoughts, quite rightly, turn to the service men and women called into action.

The Liberal Democrats are backing our armed forces in the Gulf wholeheartedly. However, there is no inconsistency between criticising the strategy of the Government and supporting the service people whose duty is to carry that strategy out. I believe the case for war against Iraq has not yet been established, especially given the absence of specific United Nations authorisation.

Naturally, we all hope for the safe return of our troops I also fear many casualties among innocent Iraqi civilians, and that this war will breed a new generation of extremists and terrorists.

Our armed forces do not seek to be politicians. They will simply be wanting to do their job, and I am sure that they will do it very well indeed. I have enormous respect for their courage, skill and devotion to duty. I hope their tasks will be swiftly concluded with minimal casualties on all sides. They deserve our full support.

Duncan Hames,

Parliamentary spokesman,

Westbury Liberal Democrats.

THE children of Studley Green School are a credit to their school and teachers.

I was listening on Friday morning to an interview on Wiltshire Radio with some of the pupils.

Their knowledge of our part in the Gulf situation was excellent. They were very articulate, clear and confident in their speech. Well done.

M KESBY,

Greenway Gardens,

Trowbridge.