THE rest of Europe decided last week to reject the UK's plan for overseas safety zones for asylum seekers.

These zones would have provided local refuge for those fleeing war and persecution. But our European friends argued that the plan would mean the creation of 'concentration camps' for asylum seekers.

However, since the UK seems to be the most favoured resort for asylum seekers - who pass through several other European countries on their way to our shores - our neighbours apparently don't mind the idea of England being turned into a concentration camp.

The Government should be concerned about the growing problems arising from excessive immigration. They are already struggling to maintain decent levels od provision of housing, education and health care, despite a stable indigenous birth rate.

There is a perception that immigration is out of control, and a fear of the rapid advance of 'multiculturalism', a noble aspiration with almost no cases anywhere in the world to give us any confidence in its practicality .

The UK Government should announce now that it is withdrawing from international treaties on asylum and refuse to take in any more asylum seekers. That would concentrate a few minds.

M.Martin, Lancaster.