Printed in the Scotsman - 8th October 2009

Sir,

It is appalling that David Cameron and his party have deemed it appropriate to parade two right-wing extremists at their conference in Manchester.  Going by Mr Cameron’s choice in allies, it goes to show you that they are the same old Tories – a party that has little respect for modern Britain and our rich, diverse societies.

How can the Tories claim to be a modern, dynamic Party when they lend legitimacy to people whose views are anything but socially progressive?  The principles of equal treatment and non-discrimination are the cornerstones of our rights and values.   It is vital that our elected officials stand up for these rights and do not treat anyone, irrespective of their age, gender, sexuality, race or culture, religion or belief,  as second-class citizens .

Mr Cameron and his party have sent out a clear message to the British public that they are still the party of intolerance and social injustice, who will do very little to advance democracy and prosperity in Britain.

Catherine Stihler

MEP for Scotland

25 Church Street

Inverkeithing

Fife

KY11 1LG