THERE is an old saying that an army votes with its feet. What this means is, if the ordinary soldiers are not satisfied with their lot, they will simply desert.

Now, a growing number of people from places like Africa, Asia, the Middle East and eastern Europe are also voting with their feet and seeking refuge in western countries like the US, Britain, Australia, Canada, Germany, Austria, France, Italy, Holland, Denmark and Sweden -- simply because the citizens of these countries have the highest standard of living, the most social provision, and the most political, economic, religious, and sexual freedom.

It is for these reasons this will continue to be a magnet for asylum seekers.

JOHN PORTER, Thwaites Road, Oswaldtwistle.