SIR - The Labour deputy leader of Bradford Council, Imran Hussain, commenting on the disclosure that more than 170 people had attempted to smuggle knives into courts in Bradford, called the offenders “dumb” (T&A, January 3). This is a ridiculously underwhelming response.

Why did these people have knives in their possession in the first place?

All such people should be properly prosecuted to lay down a marker for other prospective culprits.

Further, those stupid enough to try and take in cameras and recorders should have their equipment permanently confiscated.

Let’s stop pussyfooting around with all such people and treat these idiots much more harshly, otherwise this nonsense will just continue unabated.

Bob Watson, Springfield Road, Baildon