WHAT a relief to hear of the 15 service personnel being released by the Iranians, but surely there must be someone accountable for the circumstances of their capture (kidnapping) which is almost a replica of the incident of some two and a half years ago.

It is extraordinary that communications must have been with the mother-ship of the impending intentions of the approaching Iranian boats, yet HMS Cornwall chose to remain eight miles away.

Political correctness has for some years pervaded this country, and its tentacles appear to have reached out to the captain of HMS Cornwall, Commodore Nick Lambert, in the Persian Gulf.

Many a good RN commander, finding themselves in such a position, would have been influenced by the "Nelson Touch" and at least attempted to prevent the capture of his 15 crew.

The whole issue apparently stems from a mandate by the UN to have ships entering the Gulf searched for illegal cargo - but why by the RN?

Successive British governments have all too often and too willingly committed forces to potentially dangerous areas of conflict, at the behest of the UN while other countries - notably European - either make a far less commitment, or none at all.

Leading Seaman Faye Turney, as we have so often seen portrayed as one of the captives, has been an obvious controversial and embarrassing aspect in this difficult situation.

No matter how much the Government panders to the feminist lobby, the whole issue of a women's role in the Armed Services must surely be reconsidered.

It could well be argued that Fay Turney's "service" should be on the Home Front looking after her two small children rather than in the forefront of a dangerous naval operation.

The sudden release of the captives suggests that some deal or concession has been made, given by this inept Blair regime whose commitment in this conflict has resulted in this situation.

Sadly it has brought discredit to a once proud and legendary Royal Navy.

G HUMPHREYS.

Purton.

Swindon