DES Morgan makes an excellent point in his letter (SA, April 20) about the BNP.

It is important that the BNP is defeated democratically, and we mustn't allow their members to dress themselves up as martyrs of free speech.

It is legitimate to have political debate on immigration and asylum seekers and terrorism. Lots of people have concerns over these issues and both sides of the argument should be represented in the democratic process.

However, the BNP is different from other parties for three reasons. Firstly, it consistently starts false rumours to whip up racial tension.

Secondly, it lies about the type of party it is, pretending to be just patriotic, whereas in fact its members are Fascists opposed to democracy. Thirdly, the BNP has time and again been linked to political violence.

If the BNP gains even a small foothold in our town, then it will increase tensions between communities and in other towns it has led to an increase in hate crimes.

What is more it will send out a message that Swindon is a town in crisis, and that will effect investment and employment.

Most people in Gorse Hill and Pinehurst have far more sense than to vote for the BNP, but what we need is for people to make a special effort and actually vote for any one of the other five candidates this Friday.

This will send a message to the BNP that they are not welcome in our town.

A NEWMAN.

Swindon