Letter: Goldsmith, the enemy of Europe

Sir: I really do feel the public should be spared the oceans of hypocrisy about James Goldsmith and his role in European politics.

Goldsmith was able, cheerful and energetic. His fight against cancer was brave and he will be sadly missed by his many friends. However, his role in European politics was destructive and dangerous. The nationalism of his rhetoric helped to fuel some of the worst prejudice we have experienced in Europe since the Second World War.

Goldsmith will not be missed in the European Parliament, where he showed little respect for democracy and international co-operation. He was a "chequebook" politician who tried to buy political influence in Britain, France and the European Parliament. Goldsmith was a nationalist in an international parliament which he rarely attended.

MICHAEL McGOWAN MEP

(Leeds, Lab)

Leeds