As a former director of a major UK charity that sent UK men and women to volunteer their skills and expertise in developing countries, I was appalled at the Gillian Gibbons situation in Sudan.
Surely the time has come to restrict the countries in which UK volunteers serve to those that appreciate the help given by so many to make life more tolerable. The way Sudan has abused Gillian Gibbons is beyond words. Any country that behaves the way it has does not deserve our help.
There are many other countries that are very appreciative of the time and effort put in by so many volunteers and overseas workers. I always admired the way our volunteers worked so patiently and diligently in conditions most of us would not accept. Away from home, the last thing they should need to worry about is whether they have used the right words in innocent conversation. Yes, cultures are different and one has to be sensible and adaptable but basic humanity is the same the world over.
All true religions preach tolerance. Perhaps the Sudanese need to revisit that word before everyone turns their backs on them and leaves them to their own cruel laws some of which should be dumped back in the dark ages where they belong. It is time for the UK to pull out of sending our volunteers to Sudan now.
Iain J McConnell, Speedybank, Gifford, East Lothian.
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