Letter: Chamber shaped for conflict
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.Sir: I would fully support Derek Jones's call (letter, 5 May) for a fan-shaped Commons chamber.
The recognised way of avoiding confrontational meetings, without stifling strongly expressed opinions, is the fan-shaped or circular chamber. I found long ago that abolishing church council meetings where members glared across the room at each other, and substituting a fan-shaped gathering, allowed business to be conducted more efficiently and with less hassle. This seems to have become the norm in most meetings outside the British Parliament. The debating chambers of most of our European neighbours have the same seating, in a circular or semi-circular plan.
If we are to become a less confrontational nation, with a One Nation ethos, this is a priority, not an optional extra.
Canon G H SMITH
Kidderminster, Worcestershire
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments