I don't believe the award of a knighthood to Salman Rushdie was intended as a deliberate insult to Iran or Islam, as suggested by Philip Lardner (letters, June 18). In fact, I think it was probably just a slip of the pen by Tony Blair.

I don't believe the award of a knighthood to Salman Rushdie was intended as a deliberate insult to Iran or Islam, as suggested by Philip Lardner (letters, June 18). In fact, I think it was probably just a slip of the pen by Tony Blair.

When reviewing the alphabetic list of those suggested for honours, I'm sure he really meant to tick the name immediately after Salman Rushdie, that of his close friend and admirer - Salmond, Alex.

Iain A D Mann, 7 Kelvin Court, Glasgow.

I was extremely heartened to read the feature (June 19) on the subject of young Muslims in Scotland.

The younger generation of Scottish Muslims include some of the most patriotic and vivacious individuals that our country has to offer. Research over the past year has only helped to emphasise that Scottish Muslims, both young and old, are more likely to identify strongly with Scottish values and have more confidence in its institutions than the population as a whole.

I am convinced that this vibrant and diverse community will continue to work en route for a more prosperous Scotland and help it flourish under the leadership of Alex Salmond and the new executive.

Also, regarding the recent hullabaloo surrounding the knighthood for author Salman Rushdie, I fully understand the argument to preserve freedom of speech. However, when freedom of speech develops into freedom to insult then we start treading into dangerous territories.

As Frank Barron once said: "Never take a person's dignity; it is worth everything to them, and nothing to you."

Noman Tahir, 27 Arlington Street, Glasgow.