Whilst I was pleased that my letter concerning the proposed gypsy and traveller site had at least elicited a response (the 'Post' January 29) I was disappointed, but not entirely surprised, that the reader had chosen to interpret my comments as racist/prejudiced.

If you can bear to read my letter again, you will see that my central complaint is that the tax payer is being asked to fund a minority group (in this case, it happens to be gypsy/travellers but it could be any minority group) to lead a way of life that cannot be sustained in this day and age on a small island with a burgeoning population. I too would like to lead the life I led even 40 years ago but times have changed and, as Charles Darwin might have said, you must adapt to your environment or you will not thrive.

I am aware of the gypsies who have settled in the Holsworthy area. They have adapted to today's society and thrive, they are a contributing part of the community — which is exactly my point! I am also well aware that the planning law is such that councils must provide gypsy/traveller sites — only John Prescott could trumpet a law promoting segregation!

Why should a site that is inappropriate for residential development in accordance with Torridge's own plan, suddenly be suitable for such a site that is only going to be occupied by a specific group? Why in this supposed age of equality should there be one law for one person and another for another? It is completely illogical and only serves to promote ill feeling.

Many of the people I have spoken to feel the same but are frightened to speak out because they a) think that they will be accused of prejudice and b) think that some of the local Romany Gypsy population will take it personally. Your reader's letter unfortunately proves them correct on both counts and this is the tragedy of the political correctness forced upon us by government, resulting in a loss of freedom of speech. One day an altruistic lawyer will challenge the whole concept of human rights which, in effect, have been used to prevent the majority from exercising theirs.

I admit my ignorance — I still don't know the official definition of a Romany Gypsy and a traveller (and suspect the government doesn't either) and, yes I also admit I am prejudiced — against discriminatory laws.

Holsworthy.