ALL praise to Peter Mandelson for reportedly donating £10,000 to the Daily Mail's campaign to bring the Omagh bombers to justice.

However, the former Northern Ireland Secretary is a public servant and, as such, has a duty to explain to the public, clearly and concisely, whether or not there was any chicanery regarding the Hinduja passport affair.

It was my understanding that any interviews questioning Government actions were given gratis by the Minister or MP concerned, so that the public can form their own opinion. It is a different matter if said persons write articles for publication, and it is then correct that they be paid.

To receive a fee for explaining Government actions would be a disgrace to the name of open, honest government and would do no credit to the Minister or MP concerned, or to his party.

A. P. TOBIAS