The Editor, Sir:

It is always smart to defend the 'boss', but I was a little stunned by Granville Newell's letter 'In defence of Minister Grange', in today's (October 15) edition. If he felt the content of the minister's was not properly understood by Senator Nicholson, or if he felt elucidation was necessary, then I would understand the intent of his intervention.

However, in discussing the bills before the joint select committee of Parliament, he asked a curious question for a civil servant, " ... is the Opposition dragging its feet and preventing this urgent legislation from being passed, despite have agreed on the major points at the Vale Royal talks?."

I think the civil servant entered upon a political reference and that is wrong. The minister is perfectly capable of fighting her own political battles and it is out of line for Mr Newell to be chucking politics. For one, he was not present at Vale Royal, and so, cannot speak to what Senator Nicholson agreed, and second, 'cockroach nuh business in a fowl fight'.

Shame, Granville, you are a pro, do better.

I am, etc.,

COLIN CAMPBELL

colincampbell@cwjamaica.com