SIR – It is certainly valid to argue that the West’s interference in the internal affairs of many of the countries of the Middle East, has caused instability, often resulting in regime changes and greater volatility.

Consequently this increases the number of refugees seeking safety in Europe.

In this respect I can agree with your correspondent Christopher Hindle (T&A, March 19). However, it is precisely because we cannot influence policies within the European Union as regards migration flows that prevents us from limiting numbers of people arriving from Eastern Europe.

Therefore the only realistic solution to achieve effective border controls is to leave the EU. Finally and quite astoundingly, I can again agree with Mr Hindle, that rather than deprive poorer countries of their skilled workers, such as doctors and engineers, we should train our own people for those positions.

Alec Suchi, Allerton Road, Bradford