IN reply to Mrs J. Allison's letter (June 19), we must all respect the supreme sacrifice made by many British people to beat the Nazis and fascism in the 1940s.

That was done to defend European democracy. Economically, geographically and historically, we are undeniably a leading European country. Who would challenge that?

By forming a strong European liaison, we want to prevent these tragic events from recurring after 50 years of peace. Also, from a strong, united position, we need to point out to a super-power only representing five per cent of world population, that we need to be properly consulted on their policies.

Recently we have seen the effects of civil war under Molosevic and the poor state of our public services after 18 years of Tory neglect. Let us not compound our problems by isolating ourselves from our nearest and most natural allies.

Winston Churchill said in 1948: "We are asking the nations of Europe, between whom rivers of blood have flowed, to forget the feuds of a thousand years".

Wise words. Let us, I suggest, build on our present position so that we and our descendents can live in peace and prosperity.

J. HOLDEN,

St Paul's Street,

Ramsbottom.