NO DOUBT Mike Rose is right when he asserts (Oxford Mail, October 1) that some would-be asylum seekers are aggressive or economically motivated.

It is reasonable in this overcrowded island that we should be concerned about the prospect of a huge influx of refugees. I, too, find it worrying.

However, to make a comparison between Syria today and Great Britain during the Second World War is completely unrealistic.

During the war, which I remember clearly (I was 11 when it ended), we were not being torn apart by civil conflict. On the contrary, we were a united nation fighting a common enemy. Differences of class, faith and politics were set aside and people of all groups bonded together in a way I have never seen since.

To suggest that Syrians should “stay and fight” when they may have no sympathy for the government, the rebels or the Islamic State, is a vast simplification.

Also, when we were at war we did not see a complete breakdown of the social system. The country was highly organised and those who, sadly, lost homes and relatives in the bombing were looked after and supported.

They were not left without food, shelter or a livelihood as seems to be happening in Syria. If this appalling situation is ever to be addressed, we must understand its nature.

JENNY PERRY
Park Road
Didcot