In response to Paul Sartain, general manager of Borders, Brighton (Opinion, July 4), I remind readers that Borders is a US company that has denied its staff the right to join trade unions.

Such actions are illegal in the UK.

So Borders cares about "choices" and "rights"?

Perhaps members of the British public may choose not to shop at Borders to express their disapproval of the way the company treats its US workforce.

Andy Taylor, Church Road, Hove

-* Philip Downer, managing director of Borders UK Superstores, replies: Borders UK provides a rewarding, friendly and open environment for its staff. Borders employees are intelligent, free-thinking individuals who can make up their own minds about whether or not they believe union representation is in their best interest. Borders supports their rights to debate the issue and organise if that's what they decide to do. Borders has established lines of communication within the company and all employees know they can discuss their concerns or suggestions with supervisors, managers or directors of the company, including myself. We will always listen and respond to what they have to say.