Letter: Samba anthem

Sir: Whether the foie gras served at the millennium lunch (report, 3 November) was of French origin or not, the fact is that this "food" should not have been served at all.

I wonder how many of those attending would eat this so-called delicacy if they were aware of the facts. Ducks and geese are kept in horrendous conditions, many in battery-type cages, and force-fed maize for 16 days.

A metal tube similar to a petrol pump nozzle is forced down their oesophagus three times daily, forcing 500g of maize down their gullet. I am outraged, yet not surprised, that the Royal Family actually sanctions such cruelty.

SHARON L HAY

Bathgate, Lothian