Damn lies

Some of your readers will have had difficulty with what Mark Stephens has to say about the problem of truth in our system of justice (see [2001] Gazette, 9 August, 16).Mr Stephens correctly identifies the problems faced by the courts in a more cynical society where 'there is a readier acceptance of lies'.But these problems are not essentially problems to be resolved by the courts.A start has to be made by those in society, including professionals such as Mr Stephens, who can see the problem clearly and have a platform to suggest solutions.In making the glib and frankly meaningless acknowledgement that without lies there is no society, Mr Stephens misses an opportunity.Can we afford to ignore the Ten Commandments? Are we to say that they do not count any more because they are observed less than they used to be?The imperative to speak the truth is not changed by shifts in ideas and opinions.A society will always be happier more integrated and more at peace with itself when men and women acknowledge the real importance of this imperative.

That is the real point.It is our duty as professionals to stand firm and refuse to accept any dilution of this principle.We should never accept lying in our domestic and business relationships.

That is where all the trouble starts.We should be clear and unequivocal about an issue that goes to the heart of our system of justice and the rule of law.Andrew Bell, Beresfords, Sheffield