So, pupils who "dared" express an opinion and demonstrated against a war are to be suspended from Blatchington Mill School (March 13).

It is right those who have brought the school into disrepute should be reprimanded but, in this case, that is the person responsible for this stupid and intolerant action.

We may not condone the pupils' action but, surely, aren't critics suggesting the difference between this country and Iraq is that Iraqis cannot demonstrate?

What purpose, then, is there to prove to students that the so-called difference in values will be demonstrated by suspending them?

These students felt sufficiently motivated to express an opinion forcefully and lucidly, at a time when politicians in this country are worried young people are not getting involved in politics, either at a local or a national level.

Education means neither force-feeding nor imposing values. I believe one interpretation of the word means "to lead", not to push.

If this is a sample of the stewardship of this school, it needs someone else in charge.

Part of the price we pay for education, as we do with our own children, is that one day our young people may question us, our morals and our values.

We should pride ourselves these students felt confident enough to express their feelings on a matter that is hardly trivial.

I suppose the next step at Blatchington Mill School will be the sanctioned burning of any books the authorities do not agree with.

Yes, a reprimand may have been in order but what does society want to do?

We rightly criticise children for being involved in vandalism and antisocial behaviour but then show our contempt for them when they become involved in real issues.

Whatever our personal views on the Iraq crisis, we should never forget the freedom we explain we have was fought for by our predecessors.

Would those predecessors have felt better if these kids were gagged or even suspended for their views? I don't think so.

-John Stevens, Roman Crescent, Southwick