OLDHAM MP Phil Woolas has at last removed his blinkers and demanded to know why racist attacks on innocent white people are being ignored.

In a letter to the Commission for Racial Equality's head Trevor Phillips, he said: "Politicians across the party divide have failed to be seen to condemn racist violence against white people."

He went on: "My view and I believe that of my constituents, is that this fact has diminished confidence in the communities."

I wonder if the fact that a local election is approaching has anything to do with it and, looking further ahead, a general election, where he may well be contesting his seat with a BNP candidate?

Hell hath no fury like an MP who thinks he may be in danger of losing his cushy job.

DAVE WILD, Clifton Street, Darwen.