I did not blame any individual or organisation for the London bombings, for the simple reason that I have no idea who was responsible. As a British Muslim who has vigorously opposed British and American policy on the Middle East and Iraq, and who was one of the million who marched through London as part of the campaign to try and stop our government from attacking Iraq, I am well aware of the damage caused and the dangers created by Anglo-American actions. But the immediate aftermath of a terrorist bombing is not the time for political debate. When your country is attacked, you must defend it. Bangladeshis know this better than anyone.

I am not new to Bangladesh. I have made several visits to my relations here. I have always been struck by the warmth and generosity of the people of this country, and I know they will sympathise with the British people, whatever they think of the British government.

I refer to the letter ofÊ Ashfia, Dhaka, in response to the letter of Dr. David Cheesman.Let me please reply to each point of Ashfia. Point: " The question to ponder is who or what made them so?" My reply: Because they perceive injustice has been done and think that killing mostly innocent people will cure that injustice. They are wrong. Point: "What will we call a modern Bush?" My reply: Look we all know Bush is a raving lunatic in charge of the asylum. ButÊkilling innocent people does not change that.

Point: "Why did the British people allow (we respectfully refer to the age-old British democracy and strong public opinion) their prime minister.."

My reply: You must understand this. Tony Blair is in love with Bush, the people of Great Britain are NOT in love with Bush or Blair, so do not blame us for them. As for democracy, you have "democracy" in Bangladesh but does that stop your corrupt politicians ? NO. Does it mean that you can tell the BNP leaders to find the killers of Awami League people ? NO. So you understand democracy is just a word, the same as in UK.

You should also know that ONLY 30% or so of British people actually voted for Blair, but on that he got into power. Point: Why do they poke their nose in the developing countries on the pretext of giving aid?

My reply: If you do not want the aid, use your democracy and tell the donors you do not want it. But do not think that taxpayers are going to continue to give money merely to go straight into pockets of corrupt people, as that is what happens to a lot of the money.

Zabidur Rahman Toronto