As I worked for the TGWU as a stores administrator between 1984 and 1996, I was particularly interested to read Roy Hilliard's bemusement at Bill Morris's frequent use of the word "black" (Opinion, May 7).

In fact, when Mr Morris was originally elected, many TGWU members (including, I'm afraid, myself) voted for him not on his extremely debatable political ability but solely because of his colour.

His appointment came on a wave of anti-racist fervour and I hold my head in shame to have been swept along with it.

It must be understood, however, that what is TGWU policy and what is TGWU practice is an entirely different matter.

I met with great opposition from management and fellow-workers alike when I attempted to implement the official policy of boycotting South African produce, in the days of apartheid.

A management member, now in a plum position, told me: "South African produce is cheap. I'm interested in finance, not blacks."

-William Fraser, Summerheath Road, Hailsham