That the parade committee felt any need to choose him is another reminder of lingering prejudice.

John Dunleavy, chairman of the parade committee, dismissed the criticism.

The parade committee is a panel of the Manhattan order.

"We've met with the parade committee, and they've expressed some concerns," he said.

Yesterday a lawyer threatened legal action if the parade committee did not allow children in wheelchairs to take part.

Mr. Johnson said the parade committee had refused the children's request.

The Mayor made a personal appeal that the parade committee allow people in wheelchairs to participate.

Two men still claim to be the chairman of the parade committee.

"It's in line with the parade committee," he said.

"I think that the cardinal may be being used by the parade committee for their own purposes," he said.