Sir: Apropos of Bayan Northcott's article about Radio 3 there are many of us who have been suffering from a hidden agenda for years, and I don't mean merely shifting "Composer of the Week" from its traditional slot to a time when honourable men are about their lawful affairs.

I am referring to composers who do not conform to the joint prejudices of the BBC music establishment, and in the absence of competent management, highly developed skills of self-promotion, or an international reputation, never get a hearing on the air; the only way a composer can make a career in this country.

Effectively the BBC is the sole custodian of contemporary music and, as the beneficiary of public funds, it has a duty to the public of which it is in total dereliction.

JAMES STEVENS

Composer

London NW7