AIDS.

The Hon. Quinton Edness said there was no evidence to support the allegation.

And he urged adults to be careful when talking or writing about the disease.

"Young people take note, and are influenced,'' said Mr. Edness.

Mr. Edness was taking issue with a letter to the editor in The Royal Gazette .

The letter, by martial arts expert Skipper Ingham, focused on whether Bermuda should repeal its law againt homosexuality.

It stated: "Look at the destruction already unleashed on this planet from AIDS which was created through this practice.

"I feel this law should be kept in place, even though no one is being prosecuted or persecuted under it at the moment anyway.'' Mr. Edness stressed he could understand people taking differing stances over the issue.

But it was wrong to blame AIDS on homosexuals.

"I think this is very dangerous. It is wrong information, which could influence young people.

"AIDS affects everybody in this society -- heterosexuals, homosexuals, the young, old, and male or female.

"AIDS does not discriminate, and anybody can catch it. It's misleading to claim it began with homosexuals. There is no evidence to support this.'' Mr. Edness added: "Adults should be very careful about what they say on AIDS.

"Young people read what is written and are influenced by it.''