Sir, - Mr Geoff Martin (Opinion, October 29th) compares the political scene in Northern Ireland to a game of baseball. While certain protagonists here certainly appreciate the effect of baseball bats within their constituencies, his comparison is otherwise invalid.
The majority in the UUP simply will not accept any variance from their "no guns, no government" policy. Many fear that David Trimble's enthusiasm for this policy is less than ardent, and that is why the Young Unionists and the Westminster Unionists share great concerns at this time.
David Trimble's response to these concerns was to bluster and threaten, hardly the response of a statesman! Indeed, the red-faced Mr Trimble who shouted at his own Young Unionists two weeks ago contrasts oddly with the relaxed David Trimble who now shares a dining table with Martin McGuinness and Gerry Adams. One can but speculate as to why he feels so at ease with those who seek the destruction of the Union.
It is a pity that Geoff Martin, in his desire to elevate Mr Trimble, entirely avoids dealing with the crunch issue of how any democratic institution can contain those who retain a private army in pursuance of their political objectives. It is a contradiction in terms, and the UUP leader and his apologists know this. That they avoid dealing with it speaks volumes, and knocks their argument out of bounds - as Mr Martin might say! - Yours, etc.,
D. Vance, UK Unionist Party, Bangor, Co Down.