WITH reference to James Stephenson’s article on Owen Paterson (Farming, Gazette & Herald July 23). Reading through this selective overview on the former Environment Minister’s demise (a demise I whole heartedly endorse) it was his lack of expertise, rather than outside pressure that finally brought him down.

As usual though in situations like this, people like Mr Paterson, with their narrow interpretation of global and local environmental issues, almost always cry wolf when their own world view brings them down to earth.

Let’s face it, how could Owen Paterson, that well-known climate sceptic, pro-fox hunting and badger culling supporter possibly command any respect whatsoever in a job where sensitivity should be paramount? For the sake of ecological sanity he had to go and thank goodness he has.

HO Griffiths, Pickering