Vigils and free speech

SIR – I do not know whether vigils outside abortion clinics have indeed constituted harassment. However, methods proposed by Ealing council to deal with them, including Public Space Protection Orders, restrict freedom of speech.

If these proposals are implemented, free speech, long-cherished in Britain, will fall well short of the standard set by the famous saying: “I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.”

The very same laws you support to silence those with whom you disagree can equally be used to silence you. Dr Stuart Blackie

Teddington, Middlesex