MR Quinn's penultimate paragraph in his letter (March 18) seems to contradict his message about policing.

If the sight of walking police officers causes yobs to "quickly flee and warn others", the officers will have prevented crime in the area. Prevention is better than the expensive chasing of offenders after a crime has been committed. CCTV cameras are not everywhere, they dont always work and they encourage the use of masks and hoods.

Patrolling officers need not follow the same beat, pattern or timing and the constant possibility of their presence deters criminals. These officers are not just walking; they are noticing undrawn curtains, unfamiliar cars or faces, and absorbing the daily pattern of their area. Conversations with local people provide useful information, perhaps invaluable if a crime occurs in the locality.

A visible, approachable police presence gives assurance to the law-abiding, a feeling of security and, to use modern phraseology, "human rights" which they are entitled to, deserve, and for which they pay.

Mr Quinns reference to a "false promise to the electorate" sounded like a description of the Prime Minister.

ONCE A LABOUR VOTER