Sir, – When the British prime minister is unable to avoid friction in her cabinet it is difficult to see how she can ensure a frictionless Border? – Yours, etc,
PATRICK WARD,
Kilkenny.
Sir, – From time to time the professional eccentric gains a firm platform in the Tory Party. To qualify, the MP must possess a command of language, usually derived from the Oxford/Cambridge debating society, be given to sweeping generalisations, accompanied by a sharp wit and pleasant humour. He must be of quirky and toffish appearance and reside at a suitable address. All of these characteristics, along with the “stiff upper lip” are well rehearsed and cultivated, generating a certain aura for the MP which is hugely attractive to a certain class of Tory voter and a magnet for political comment. Guess which Tory MP I have in mind? – Yours, etc,
MICK O’BRIEN,
Springmount,
Kilkenny.