Human Rights For Homosexuals

Sir, - Mr O'Hanlon's lengthy letter (July 3rd) shows how deeply absorbed he is in his subject

Sir, - Mr O'Hanlon's lengthy letter (July 3rd) shows how deeply absorbed he is in his subject. He might have been better employed getting out and about and meeting a few quiet homosexual women. If he knew more about what their relationships involved he might be less ready to demonise homosexual people.Their relationships can be as long-lasting and affectionate as heterosexual partnerships. They look after their gardens, go to the supermarket, plan summer holidays, worry about the mortgage and can even be respected by their neighbours. However, few homosexual women would want to risk having Mr O'Hanlon round for a cup of tea. They have learnt to cope with critics fascinated by an excessive interest in homosexuality by preserving their anonymity - and who could blame them for that?Consequently, critics will persist in comparing the worst excesses of the gay scene with successful marriages and thus remain blind to the responsible and acceptable face of homosexuality. So the whole debate will rumble on to the continuing pleasure of those who like to read and write so much about the darker side of sexuality. - Yours, etc., Penelope Dent,Cathcart Hill,London.