Letter: New Liberal Blair?

Sir: I was outraged to be prevented from taking part in the fringe discussion "Sport for all" at the Grand Hotel on Tuesday evening, at which Tony Banks was speaking.

Unable to penetrate Fortress Labour, a large fence stretching along a section of Brighton's seafront, I was directed to an office 15 minutes away to obtain the necessary pass. There they wanted personal details for a 20-minute police check, passport photographs and a pounds 5 fee. Not surprisingly I didn't make the discussion.

It is a bizarre interpretation of a fringe discussion when sufficient bureaucratic barriers are erected to deny access for the public. It seems Blair's Britain is only open to some people. Those of us who do not have the right credentials are not allowed a voice.

ALEX STANDISH

Hove, East Sussex