This column is written in accordance with our highest democratic ideals, with which I have no quarrel. But ordinary people are concerned about their safety. People are accepted by countries as immigrants on sufferance, not as a matter of right, and so it is entirely reasonable to expect that if immigration adds to our problems, it should stop, unless there is a very good reason. Of course, rescuing innocent people from the violence in Syria is a very good reason.

The way to avoid future terrorist attacks leading to a racist response is for those who aren't racist to rebuild trust with the public, to show that they are serious about protecting the public. If it appears that they are only really serious about not discriminating, but security gets only lip service, of course the racists will win.

The coverup of the robberies in Cologne, making it appear that the safety of women is less important than avoiding an inconvenient political reaction, is the wrong way to go.