I am pleased to note that Colin Towner concedes that there is string pulling in this country. However, to dismiss it on the grounds that it happens in other countries too is a poor excuse (Oxford Mail, December 18).
If it is acceptable, why was David Blunkett accused by the press, especially the Daily Mail, of using his ministerial position to fast track a visa application made by the nanny of his former girlfriend?
I am aware that I am not an exceptional case or considered a particular asset like Zola Budd as Mr Towner describes her. But her naturalisation was achieved in a matter of days backed by the Daily Mail and Lord Carlisle.
It would be interesting to know what contribution she has made and whether she still lives in this country.
Mr Towner is interested to know why it took me so long to apply for naturalisation.
He may be surprised to learn that I did not enter this country with that purpose in mind.
When I realised that I had lived in this country for more years than my native place of birth (Ceylon, now renamed Sri-Lanka), I knew I owed my allegiance to Britain.
Incidentally, the Ceylon passport I carried at the time of entry was endorsed by the immigration authority that the holder had 'indefinite stay'. VIM RODRIGO, Rivermead Road, Rose Hill, Oxford
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