THE EDITOR, Sir:
NEVER BEFORE in the history of Central Manchester political rivalry has there ever been such a brutish, violent and intimidatory campaign tactics meted out to the decent and peaceful, law-abiding citizenry of Central Manchester as is now. Our history of past political contest has been most cordial, respectful, decent and without rancour.
Since 1976, we have had the following contests: Ricketts vs Jones; Dr. Beaumont vs Jones; Cecil Charlton vs Junor; Harding vs Junor; Genus vs Junor. No violence, hate, malice nor ill will.
These men were of honour and decency. Since September of last year, the beast of violence has reared its ugly head. When our home-grown boy David Panton was on the political hustings, he reminded us of that great politician and a gem of a gentleman Dr. Sydney Beaumont. Now, there is an alien virus which has crept into our politics.
Let's vote on Election Day as we know no other way to rid our Central Manchester of the scourge of violence and intimidation so that we continue to live in civility, harmony and respect for each other.
I am etc.
F. MAXWELL
Mandeville P.O.
