Anyone who knows Keighley MP Ann Cryer is fully aware that she doesn't shy from speaking out and fighting for what she sees as being right for her constituents.

There's no doubt that her views make uncomfortable reading from time to time, particularly within some quarters of the Labour Party.

This week Mrs Cryer came under fire again from within her party, being accused of making 'dangerous and irresponsible' comments.

This time the reaction to her words came from Shahid Malik, a member of Labour's National Executive Committee and a former member of the Commission for Racial Equality. He is reported to have called Mrs Cryer a menace and said she should consider resigning.

Just who does he think he is?

He is probably more used to spin than facts staring him in the face.The laws of the land prevent certain comments, but the evidence to back up what Mrs Cryer says about drugs, forced marriages, children going on prolonged trips abroad, is there for anyone who is prepared to open their eyes to see and read.

At the best Shahid Malik's comments are a knee-jerk rent-a-quote reaction and should be treated as such.

If, however, he believes what he is reported to have said then it is he who should consider his future. This is not a matter of politics - it is about tackling issues which are blocking the path to harmony.

Mrs Cryer says we have to have the courage to raise issues and put questions that are often difficult.

She correctly says that no one community has the right to have the monopoly of views on such vital matters that affect all citizens.

Keighley will not shirk from its community responsibilities. It has the ability to talk and openly debate issues, no matter how difficult they may be.

People from all walks of life are working hard to make sure that we build on the tremendous amount of progress already being made. Long may that continue.

A space is reserved in this newspaper for a public apology to Mrs Cryer from Mr Malik.

It could run alongside the one we are still waiting for from those Bradford Councillors who vilified Mrs Cryer on a previous occasion when she spoke out.

In the meantime we should all continue to find the courage necessary to rid the streets of drugs and those who deal in them, and join in the debate on the other issues.