ALTHOUGH it is disappointing that the BNP have decided to target York, I sincerely hope that we will not have their every leaflet, proclamation and publicity stunt reported upon by the Evening Press.
Media coverage is essential for the growth of smaller parties. The Green Party has been able to increase its support base in York partly due to having a platform in the local press.
UKIP now has an MEP in Yorkshire due to a clamour of Kilroy-inspired national media coverage in the elections last year.
The BNP thrives on the oxygen of publicity and even negative coverage helps get their message to potential supporters. Every article you print is an excuse for their national press office to send a flurry of angry letters and emails from "genuine York residents" defending their position.
Like an annoying toddler with a tantrum, the best strategy is to ignore them. I ask that this newspaper shows a good deal of restraint in reporting their activities.
Peter Sanderson,
Wellington Street,
York.
Updated: 10:56 Monday, December 05, 2005
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