MY FIRST reaction to Steve Metcalfe's letter headed Ordinary people have voices of their own' (Citizen last week) was one of utter astonishment.

Like Steve, I was unable to attend the Green Party's public meeting on Iraq. I am both a supporter of Lancaster and District Coalition Against the War and a member of the NUT (albeit retired), though, of course, this letter expresses my individual views.

I can understand Steve's frustration. Nearly two years ago we walked together through the centre of London as participants in an enormous demonstration against the Iraq war.

It is well known that the average life of a local protest group is usually just a couple of years. LDCAW has remained active for so long precisely because ordinary people are deeply concerned about the situation in Iraq.

In the autumn, supporters took part in three separate vigils, sometimes turning out in the evening in the dark straight after work. This is in addition to Saturday sessions with the stall in Market Square. Has Steve not noticed these activities? Or perhaps he doesn't see them as important?

The Green Party has taken a consistent and courageous stand against the Iraq war. Why, Steve, do you think it was not entitled to hold a public meeting discussing the issue? I am not a member of the Green party but I would describe its members' attempts to provide political debate as exemplary rather than very strange' behaviour.

So yes, Steve, ordinary people do have voices of their own. It's just that this woman, a lifelong trade union member, takes no offence at proceedings at that December meeting.

However, let's look on the positive side. If your letter starts off a serious debate on these pages on Iraq and other issues facing ordinary voters in this election year then that will be an excellent start to proper politics in Lancaster.

Jacqueline Skinner, Lancaster.