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Comment

The situation surrounding the gypsies living in Minety is clearly a very delicate one.

The excellent letter from Paul Venton (May 1) acknowledged that the gypsies must be involved in finding an alternative site and that Conservative-run North Wiltshire District Council was wrong in the way it sought to rush through a decision. Unfortunately, also in last week's edition, was a column from James Gray MP in which he compared gypsies to red-headed Scotsmen and suggested that the planning process should not accommodate their desire to live together as a group. Surely what is needed from the area's MP are considered and thoughtful comments rather than the rash and divisive ones written by Mr Gray.

I am pleased that the council has now listened to the public and will consult local people about the suitability of alternative sites proposed for travellers in the district. I hope this consultation will focus on planning considerations rather than prejudice.

Mike Evemy, Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Spokesperson, North Wiltshire constituency

3:26pm Thursday 8th May 2008

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