Suspended teacher

Such statements would be more convincing had I not sat opposite her at the investigatory meeting and noticed that the file in front of her contained the election address issued by Mr Walker at the last local elections where he stood as a BNP candidate.

They might also have been more believable had she not questioned Mr Walker on his political affiliations at previous investigatory meetings. Now she is seeking to downplay this because she has been challenged by our union about this discrimination.

I had hoped the suspension could have been lifted even if Mrs Byrne felt disciplinary charges should be brought and answered.

Unfortunately, questions I sought to put were not answered prior to Mrs Byrne deciding to refer the case to the governing body and argument that would have developed did not take place.

Normal procedure seems to have been ditched. Mr Walker has not had a full and fair investigation.

Patrick Harrington, General Secretary, Solidarity Trade Union, Spennymoor, Co Durham.

I WAS rather surprised at the tone of your report headed "Supporters of teacher say they may step up protests" (Echo, Sept 4).

It is difficult in reporting, I agree, to strike a political balance, but it might have been pointed out to readers that the Solidarity trade union which organised this demonstration is in truth a part of the fascist BNP, of which the suspended teacher is a member, and election candidate.

Solidarity, like its "parent" BNP, does not have a record of supporting workers' action, but it will seek to join in disputes for its own ends.

Patrick Harrington, the union representative you quoted, set up this union after being expelled from the railworkers' union (RMT).

Although his union has been registered with the authorities it has not sought any affiliation with the Trades Union Congress.

Bill Lawrence, Whitley Bay, North Tyneside.