LETTER : After the bomb: inclusive talks, compromise and debate

From Mr Richard Shaw

Sir: Am I alone in worrying that the unity displayed across the three main parties in the House of Commons of Northern Irish policy is doing the peace process no favours at all? Uniquely among its policies, the Government's Northern Irish agenda receives little real debate, little challenge, little parliamentary scrutiny.

Doubtless, the party leaders would cite the common democratic principles that underscore all their beliefs as the wellspring of this unity and I wouldn't suggest otherwise

Ironically, the outcome is a failure of the democratic process - specifically a failure of parliament - to discuss, to examine, to offer alternative insights and ways forward. Government policy is bound to suffer from this sterility. Even more importantly, so must the people of Northern Ireland.

Yours faithfully,

Richard Shaw

Appleshaw, Hampshire

10 February