Anthony Borg Cardona has taken me to task because I lauded the way multiculturalism is practised in Australia and also stated that it is thriving. On what do I base such an assertion? Facts prove that diversity of culture, practised by mature people, leads to assimilation of such cultures. After all, what is the definition of multiculturalism? It is simply cultural pluralism, or more directly, tolerance.

Tolerance is accepting other people's way of life, including indigenous Australians. Tolerance is also taught in schools where there is a high proportion of different nationalities, with students encouraged to learn how other people live.

Having stated this, I must remind Mr Borg Cardona that every state and territory, as well as the Federal Parliament, have a Minister for Ethnic and Multicultural Affairs, which in itself proves that multiculturalism is accepted nationwide.

He quoted Peter Costello and Brendan Nelson, both senior ministers in the Howard government, implying that they do not agree with multiculturalism.

Well, Malcolm Fraser, ex-Prime Minister of Australia, who is considered the originator of multiculturalism, said: "Neglect of value of cultural diversity will lead to the destruction of multiculturalism". Incidentally Brendan Nelson after wreaking havoc in the Ministry of Education, some three months ago was given the defence portfolio.

Recently I attended the opening of the Maltese festa held in the Immigration Museum. The main attraction there is a large statue of St Sebastian. The exhibition was opened by the ex-Premier of Victoria, John Cain, and attended by various nationalities all admiring our traditional way of life. That's multiculturalism at its best for those who are not inhibited.