Daniel Lake certainly seems to have some illusions in the good intentions of the Bush and Blair governments. Let's hope he can retain them in the reality of war and its aftermath. Those of us with longer memories will recall that Blair's mission to help the world did not prevent him selling aircraft to the Suharto regime for use in its genocide in East Timor. Indeed, many of those now abused as appeasers by Daniel were active in opposition to that policy, which continued until Suharto was overthrown by his own people.

The difference was that, unlike Saddam, Suharto had not foolishly upset his UK/US backers and was therefore able to commit human rights abuses with impunity. Equally, Israel is able to ignore scores of UN resolutions, illegally occupy land and abuse the Palestinians, and possess nuclear weapons because it has US support.

EILEEN GEORGE

Welcombe Ave

Swindon