28 OCTOBER 1972, Page 15

Vulnerable

Sir: In stating his belief that homosexuals should not be allowed to hold high office, Spectator also stated, equally clearly, his prejudiced attitude towards homosexuals. It may well be that homosexuals are vulnerable to blackmail, but this vulnerability is not inherent; rather it is the product of the fear generated by widespread public hostility.

Would that Spectator had chosen not to fan the flames of prejudice, but had chosen to point out that a person's sexuality is a very minor consideration provided he has the necessary qualities for leadership. Integrity, dedication and the like are not the monopoly of heterosexuals.

If people were not so impassioned against homosexuals, there would be no security risk.

Hector J. Hill 49 Kirkgate, Shipley