LETTER : A constitutional end to strife over Ireland

THE country in Europe more riven than any other by linguistic and religious divisions, and a bitter history of civil strife, has long ago learnt to live with them: Switzerland. In both world wars, the two main linguistic groups were on opposite sides but, despite tensions, unity was maintained.

This seeming miracle isachieved by common sense. The Swiss have devised a variety of constitutional and political structures for coping with differences and making sure that people keep out of each other's hair.

If I were a politician with any concern for Northern Ireland, I would bring in a team of Swiss constitutional experts.

Henry Law

Brighton, East Sussex