Sir, Tim Hames (Comment, August 23) denies that we have any sense of historical obligation to Sudan.
Having conquered the country with considerable brutality in 1898, we made it one of the great success stories of the Empire. The Sudan Political Service and the Sudan Defence Force attracted the best of Britain’s overseas civil and military servants, who eventually prepared the country for self-government in 1956.
Their work now lies in ruins. Yet so great was their regard for the people of Sudan (who seem genuinely to have admired them in return) that a strong bond was created that should surely not be forgotten today. The successful relationship which we established with Sudan gives us an obligation to come vigorously to its assistance now.
Yours faithfully,
ALISTAIR COOKE,
Flat 1,
68 St George’s Square, SW1V 3QT.
August 23.