Customs procedures

Press, 5 July 1983, Page 20

Customs procedures

Sir, — The point about the treatment of high officials by Customs is well made by Mr Wilkinson (July 1). As well as her good letter to “The Press,” I hope Miss Burnett (June 29) made her displeasure known loud and clear at the Customs desk when her letters were read. Taking a stand as a lone individual in situations like that is a good way of making sure that no official, petty or otherwise, rides over you roughshod. It also shows other possibly intimidated onlookers not to lie down easily. — Yours, etc., J. PETRIE. July 1, 1983. Sir,—l note with interest the correspondence in your columns about the Customs Department. Recently I was subjected to a thorough search by Customs officers at Harewood airport. The officer conducting the search had the audacity to pick up and start reading my diary. I snatched this back from him and quickly informed him that he had no right to read my diary. Unfortunately, most people are so intimidated by these customs officers that they are walked over. However, I for one refuse to let them go one inch beyond their already wide powers. — Yours, etc., R. L. JOHNSON. July 1, 1983.