Frank Prince-Iles (Opinion, February 6) compares homophobic prejudice to "speciesism". I quote his words: "Same prejudice, different target". Homophobia is bigotry towards gay

people. I presume by "speciesism" Mr Prince-Iles refers to ill-treatment or prejudice towards certain species of animal. How can his comparison make any sense? How can two completely different forms of prejudice be the same?

While Mr Prince-Iles has the right to his opinion and the right to be concerned for animals and their rights, perhaps he should have refrained from being so pedantic and realised John Parry was simply denouncing the ignorant bigots who attack gay people.

This unacceptable violence and homophobic attitude is a serious worry, more serious than Mr Parry's use of the word "animal" to describe these idiots.

His mistake, at worst, was a misuse of vocabulary. Hardly the same as the

sickening violence and attempted murder which makes gay people terrified to go outside.

-Jenny Graham, Cromwell Road, Hove