Shooting is not a pastime for deviants: Letter

Sir: Inner city schools are for the most part islands of good order, good learning and good relationships. At least that is generally so in Birmingham. But the streets around us are home to a culture of drugs, knives and guns. This does not only apply to the inner city. Head teachers report a sharp increase in threatening incidents, especially involving uninvited disturbed visitors, during the past two terms.

The gun lobby must not prevail. Our society can no longer afford the dubious luxury of handguns. They must be banned.

JOHN RAY

Chairman of Governors

Golden Hillock Secondary School

Birmingham