I could not avoid a certain feeling of cynicism on reading the latest chapter of the Gangotri saga (Shadow secretary tours Gangotri death sanctuary', March 14).

Indeed the cynicism was coupled with amusement at the Conservative Party's attempt to leap aboard the politically correct bandwagon.

In recent months both television and the press have reported on the efforts of Indian women, in the sub-continent and even here in the UK, to obtain selective abortions, often, it must be said, as a result of extreme family pressures, to ensure the birth of boy babies rather than girls.

The practice is illegal in India, but thrives nonetheless.

I have not seen any reports from Bhaktivedanta Manor opposing or even deploring this practice.

I hope I am wrong and I would like an assurance from Bhaktivedanta Manor that they do, in fact, use any influence they may have to fight this deplorable practice.

As far as the Conservatives are concerned, I wonder what Messrs Ainsworth and Vara's positions are on the Govern-ment's Human Fertilisation and Embryology Bill?

Apparently our Hertsmere MP, James Clappison, sadly supports this dreadful measure.

Tom Jones, Tallis Way, Borehamwood