The devastating attacks on New York and Washington last week stunned the world with their audacity and horror. Britain promised whatever help America needed. But was this right? Should we involve ourselves in something which did not directly involve us? Our columnists discuss this thorny issue

It's our duty to assist

THE terrorist attacks on the World Trade Centre and other American institutions were nothing short of horrific.

The cost in not just human life but also economic terms, has ensured the ramifications of this attack will be felt around the globe.

The world has joined together in an effort to identify and bring to justice those responsible for perpetrating this monstrosity.

Britain must play a part in this mission, not just because of our "special relationship" with America but because we, and every other country in the world, have a moral and ethical right to provide whatever support is necessary to ensure this sort of act never happens again.

Those who perpetrated these crimes must be found and dealt with in a way which is democratically correct. But as the attacks are a horror which has befallen the Americans, it is only right they should take the lead while we follow and support them in whatever course of action they feel necessary.

Britain and America share so many things it would be potentially devastating if we were to abandon our friends and neighbours "across the pond" in their hour of need.

Whoever or whatever is responsible for this terrifying and bloodthirsty act must be made accountable for their crimes. We have to support our democratic friends and ensure, in this terrible time of global terrorism, we do not find ourselves isolated and at the mercy of groups who are no better than bullies in the playground.

RUPERT SMYTHE

Think before we leap in

TERRORISM is an awful thing, and the scale of the attacks on American institutions last week was unprecedented and totally horrific.

Our heartfelt sympathies go to all of those across the Atlantic who lost loved ones in this terrible tragedy.

Terrorist attacks in this country have left us with the same fear Americans must now have.

This is the fear in which we do not know when, where or how our nation will be struck by rogue organisations with the power to wreak havoc on day-to-day life.

It is, therefore, important we react to the situation in the US as we would handle similar situations over here in our own country by getting back to normal as soon as possible.

There has been a lot of talk about Britain's "special relationship" with America.

But, in reality, we all know this has been one-sided for many years.

There are fundamental differences between our two countries historically, economically and politically.

Britain must ensure it does not risk lives and livelihoods on its own doorstep in responding to a problem on the other side of the world.

A rash response to this situation by furious Americans who believe they are the most powerful people in the world could seriously damage our future in Europe and our relationships in the Middle East if we allow ourselves to be drawn into the fray.

RACHEL BRADMAN

September 13, 2001 10:05