I will not be holding my breath awaiting a quick response by the authorities following the recent reports by Jon Austin.

Essex Police is already turning a blind eye it seems. Was it not the same police force who stood by and watched as traveller groups unlawfully drove on to private land in Castle Point not too long ago?

It seems Basildon Council also knew something, but did not act.

I am beginning to understand why nothing is done. Whatever "representative"

group is approached, there comes the same mantra: "It is their human right to preserve historic culture and traditions and we must respect that right."

Well, it seems to me the only group who are not deemed to be entitled to any rights of culture, tradition and justice are the indigenous English population!

Scotland does not recognise gipsies/travellers as a race. Eire has beefed up the law and managed to stop the spread of travellers groups there. Wales seem to have problems but the Welsh Assembly I am sure will put pressure on Parliament soon.

What Jon Austin's reports have done is to show just what can be taking place in a community of travellers.

It flies in the face of common sense when we are all under constant scrutiny, that some are permitted "by tradition"

to come and go as they please, operating unlicensed and unregulated.

I am sure there are some gipsies/travellers who do genuinely wish to settle down in one place. That being the case they should do what others do: Sell their assets, pool their cash and rent or buy bricks and mortar.

If they insist on a mobile home I am sure one could be found on an established lawful and licenced park.

With local elections looming why not ask your candidates where they stand on the issue?

A Wilson
Hart Road
Thundersley