The Editor, Sir:

Every time I read another story about people being gunned down, stabbed, etc., I feel saddened I was born and brought up in London, I love Jamaica and, have visited the island several times, the last time being in 2003. This island, so rich in music and culture and amazing scenery, is being destroyed in the world's eyes!

I am now fearful of visiting Jamaica again because, to tell the truth, I don't know if I will leave the island alive. The problem is much more deep-seated than politics - it's like a disease that is eating Jamaicans alive! In order for any 'truce' to occur, there would have to be an amnesty in place with the gun/war lords, politicians, law enforcement officers, community and church leaders gathered together to lay their cards on the table.

People in a position of authority should have to be answerable to an independent body whose ruling would be binding. There has to be an end to bribery and corruption, and instead, money ploughed into the infrastructure of Jamaica to produce decent housing and health care.

I am, etc.,

CAROL LINDSAY

Wembley, Middlesex