Letter: Ships of state

Wednesday 05 February 1997 00:02 GMT

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Ships of state

Sir: Edward Heath is not the only former premier to whom a nautical simile has been applied ("After 46 years in Parliament, `old Dreadnought' sets sail for one more battle with the young guns", 1 February). Gladstone, referring to Peel, said that "former prime ministers are like great rafts floating untethered in a harbour".

There are many who think that every harbour needs elderly vessels, whether seaworthy or derelict. They are picturesque, lend dignity and keep pilots alert.

JOHN MITCHELL

London SE13

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Thank you for registering

Letter: Ships of state

Join our commenting forum

Thank you for registering