THE Penarth Times has reported that someone has been distributing fake Ukip leaflets via post to voters in the Cardiff South and Penarth constituency.

These leaflets, which I am thankful to say I have not received, apparently pretends to be Ukip accusing other parties of backing state benefits for extremists such as the murderer known as ‘Jihadi John’.

In 2015 it is a sad indictment of society that political sleaze tactics are still being employed towards ones opponents.

I’ve made it quite clear in previous letters that I oppose the ideas and policies of Ukip but I defend any political party’s right to stand in a democratic election. I also support lawful criticism of those parties’ ideas and policies.

Any unlawful opposition, such as fake leaflets, only helps to martyr those you claim to oppose.

The press reports that the fake leaflet includes the term ‘a jihadi for a neighbour’, in reference to what voters might get should they vote for other parties.

In an environment of growing Islamophobia and public concerns over homeland security it is shameful that such provocative language is spread around by those hiding behind a fake leaflet.

Dean Scurlock

Penarth