We should tackle resentment’s root (From York Press)

We should tackle resentment’s root

11:45am Thursday 31st January 2013 in Letters By Reader's letter

YOU report that the Prime Minister is keen to help with the military operation to oust Islamic militants from Mali. This, he has said, is to protect us from terrorism.

The attack on the gas installation reflects the intense resentment directed at the UK in many parts of the world. If our Government is anxious to protect us from terrorism, instead of interfering in civil wars, it should concentrate on removing the causes of that resentment.

A major cause is the behaviour of global companies – many operating through the City of London. Badly drafted financial laws and regulations allow global companies, many with offices in the City, to operate secretly in such a way as to foster corruption and deprive the people of the developing countries of the benefits of their natural wealth.

These companies use UK Government-tolerated loopholes to avoid paying any taxes on their profits, either here or in the countries where they operate.

If there is hatred of the West in North Africa and the Middle East, the consistent failure of British governments to control global companies is a major justification for the resentment. We must bring pressure on our Government to act.

Maurice Vassie, Deighton, York.