Letter: Babies on trains: Branson's pledge

Sir: Breast-feeding is an absolutely natural act (letters, 19, 20, 21, 22 March). So are defecating, urinating and copulating. In certain parts of the world, witnessing any or all of these normal functions might be neither extraordinary nor offensive but, for example, in the UK a man openly urinating in public would be liable to arrest.

According to custom there are some things best done in private. Equally, persons blessed with common sense will appreciate that this is not always possible. To time and place, however, might also be added manner: if discretion is at least attempted, it will normally allow each party to respect the other's situation.

JOHN COLLIER

Horton-in-Craven, North Yorkshire