YOUR correspondent from Sheffield, Mr Arnott, shows a lamentable lack of knowledge of Europe and its institutions (Letters, November 29).

Britain played a major role in setting up the Council of Europe and it is that institution which safeguards our human rights, one of which is the right to life.

Practically all European countries are now members, entirely separately from the EU which Mr Arnott despises so much.

The fact that all European countries in the Council of Europe have abolished the death penalty has not increased the number of murders as suggested. Surely the right to life must be paramount for us all, wherever we are.

Richard O Whiting,

Redman Close, York.

Updated: 11:08 Thursday, December 08, 2005