25 FEBRUARY 1989, Page 25

Rank injustice

Sir: I write in defence of Mark Phillips's use of his rank of Captain following Anthony Howard's note (Diary, 7 January). There seems to be a quite uncalled for dislike of the use of military rank by retired officers among most urban dwellers. The use of a rank gained from regular service in the forces and either retained due to continued service on the reserve or from the grant of honorary rank by the Ministry of Defence on retirement is quite justified.

The idea of retaining only field rank was an uncodified Victorian idea; the early 18th century was awash with captains.

Roderick Sale

8 Almeric Road, London SW11