SO John Prescott, the Deputy Prime Minister, gave a V-sign to reporters outside 10 Downing Street (June 6). So what, some may say, those horrible people from the press with their intrusive, demanding questions deserve that sort of response.

I listened to a TV reporter highlighting the incident. He said, something like, "It must be said the reporters were giving him Prescott a hard time". The hard time in question concerned a few mild comments directed towards Mr Prescott because he would not speak to them. Did those comments warrant the V-sign, which is recognised as a rather Anglo Saxon of way of telling someone to go away?

If a teacher dealing with a group of argumentative, disruptive pupils who were taking the "mickey" gave them the V-sign, what would happen? If a police officer dealing with individuals who were being silly, cheeky and childish in a public place gave them the V-sign what would happen?

I am certain the teacher or police officer would be warned as to their conduct and lack of control, maybe even disciplined.

It was reported that Mr Prescott, when asked to explain his V-sign, replied: "Don't worry. I haven't got a problem. Just ignore it."

Surely it is about time he admitted he made a mistake and apologise for his unacceptable reaction?

There is no justification, no matter what the provocation, that someone in authority like Mr Prescott should respond as he did.

G Alderson,

Maple Grove, York.

Updated: 11:33 Tuesday, June 10, 2003