Letter: Creature comforts

Sir: I cannot believe that Terence Blacker would have written of the Chipperfield case in so frivolous a manner if he had watched the video depicting "training" techniques ("Our phoney sentiments for animals", 2 February).

On what authority does Mr Blacker assert that "animal-lovers" are "indifferent to the depredation of the countryside through intensive farming and the ever accelerating decline of mammal, bird and insect species"?

Most people who object to the exploitation of animals for profit and amusement share a broadly inclusive sympathy for nature.

It is to be regretted that you should encourage one of your staff to mock their viewpoint.

ALAN CLARK MP

House of Commons, London SW1