A YEAR ago (Letters, June 29, 2014) I questioned the wisdom of sending UK jets to bomb Iraq and warned we risked tumbling back into war.

By claiming the "illogicality" of recognising the border between Iraq and Syria, the Defence Secretary, Michael Fallon, is now preparing to extend that involvement.

This probably represents a response to the atrocity carried out against British nationals in Tunisia. However understandable that reaction might be, such revenge will undoubtedly be counterproductive. Recent history demonstrates that military action by Western powers in this region acts as an excellent recruiting sergeant for militant organisations.

Why should extending our involvement be any different this time? And what vengeance would Mr Fallon seek to extort should an RAF pilot be captured and burned alive in a cage?

The "logical" role for the UK in this ideological conflict would be to let the local states seek a solution. If we fail to do so, just how far are we prepared to tumble?

Dr Bob Scott,

Creitendam Lodge,

Balmaha Road, Drymen.