IN Blackburn town centre on Saturday, April 5, I was very impressed to see Jack Straw making himself available yet again for public questions. As a very high-profile political he could easily excuse himself from local appearances, particularly during the present war with Iraq.

He was, however, willing to field all questions and calmly take abuse from some anti-war protesters screaming: "You're a disgrace to Blackburn."

The real disgrace was their own bad manners and abusive shouting.

Isn't this just the kind of inflammatory behaviour that is at the root of rioting and war?

Along with many others, I was unhappy about entering on war without UN backing. Now that our troops are over there, I think we should support our government's efforts, but hope and pray they will be home as soon as possible.

RUTH H GORDON (MRS), The Mount, Dukes Brow, Blackburn.