I WOULD like to express my concern over Britain's apparent determination to join a war with the US which is not backed by the UN and counters international laws such as those on respecting the sovereignty and independence of nations.

Such I war, I believe, will lead to an unacceptable loss of lives of innocent Iraqi civilians. It will also destabilise the political and military situation in the Gulf region and possibly the world.

This is not to mention the economic catastrophe that could ensue with a rise in oil prices and international economic uncertainty weakening an already poorly performing US economy. There is also the strong likelihood of increased terrorist attacks on the UK.

If Saddam Hussein must indeed be dealt with, then let this be done by diplomatic means.

At this historic moment, Britain has a unique opportunity to stand up. Our constituency, then Wanstead and Woodford, once elected an MP called Winston Churchill.

Recently, he was voted through a BBC programme as the greatest Briton. Why? Because at the necessary moment, he clearly identified Britain's interests and acted on them.

Are Britain's interests truly served by a pre-emptive war against Iraq? Or is it not time to stand up like Churchill? Not against the Nazis but against the US's current policy of aggressive military intervention in the world.

At the same time you would be making a lasting contribution to proving Britain's independence to act as a force for good in the world, rather than a mere accessory of American imperialism.

ADAM GOLDSTEIN, Hillcrest Road, South Woodford.

January 29, 2003 15:00