IT IS suggested that a by-law against begging may infringe the so-called European Convention on Human Rights (May 22).

Is there anything in this document about the ''right'' of people to walk down the street without being intimidated and frightened, or without being subjected to an unwarranted intrusion into their privacy constituting harassment?

Everybody should have the right to walk the streets in peace and safety, free from the potential intimidation and harassment of a tiny minority who are attempting to claim the streets for themselves.

Contrary to Tam Hendry's inventive notion that begging is a product of a worldwide recession that began in the 1980s, begging in Edinburgh began when the by-law against it was abolished. Previous to this, the lifestyle beggars, who represent most of them, had found other things to do with their time.

We live in a democracy. It is disturbing that our elected representatives should be seeking to placate a tiny minority whose behaviour is subversive of the common good, before they give any consideration for the rights of the majority.

Alistair D McConnachie,

3 Dundonald Street,

Edinburgh.

May 22.