Brexit has sparked a cultural ‘civil war’ in the UK

With the UK economy now in recession, we need to take a long hard look at why our nation has got into this situation. As a former teacher of economic history, I would want us to look back to the origins of the industrial revolution. The “zeitgeist” at that time was favourable to economic development. It is not now.

Ever since the Brexit campaign got going there has been a cultural “civil war” underway in the UK. It has been encouraged by unscrupulous politicians and a rabidly right-wing popular press. What the UK needs now is a new national settlement covering constitutional, economic, and environmental issues. We need to be bold and brave to usher in an era where British people can once again feel at one with each other, in their country.

Andrew McLuskey

Address supplied

So, after 14 years of economic decline, not even Rishi Sunak can save the British economy. Once again, it is working people who have to pay the price for Tory incompetence.

The very same people who have been feeling the pinch all while the Tories protect the richest 1 per cent at the expense of the rest. The average household costs are up £110 a week since 2019. Which is why it is time for change.

Change like a new deal for working people that will make work pay. Change like unashamedly championing financial services.

Hence, the desperate need for wealth creation that only Keir Starmer and Rachel Reeves can safely deliver, subject to an outright majority at the general election.

Geoffrey Brooking

Havant

When you develop a culture of ridiculing your opposition, treating helpless people with impunity, and rewarding the most selfish and brutal treatment of anyone and anything for cynical personal gain, do not be surprised when your constituents adopt those same traits to achieve their own success and progress.

The media reward this with sensationalist reporting and language, which has grown steadily more aggressive and base. Lies become routine. Old-fashioned values of calm and polite debate may seem outmoded, but it is the best way for people with differing views to agree on a compromise.

Managing Israeli and Hamas negotiators must be a challenging task. This kind of thing should be behind closed doors – broadcasting such conflicts is not conducive to anything positive.

The same applies to coverage of Donald Trump and the US elections. I am getting fed up with the trivial and repetitive coverage of these matters – shallow and populist in the same way. The rush to announce a scandal or crisis means that proper validation and accuracy are sacrificed for speed. It all contributes to a knee-jerk mentality of getting your piece in before the other guys. Attack is not the best form of debate, or of persuading people of your view.

Ask yourself how this came about. I am not surprised, but I am surprised that politicians think their style of conduct has no effect. It would not be permitted in a modern and fair business environment. This is not about eliminating passion – it is about how you express yourself.

Times have indeed changed.

Michael Mann

Shrewsbury

Speaking as someone who lives in the so-called “levelled-up” North, I can’t think of a better way to waste £6m than by rebranding train lines.

I hope Londoners who wrestle every day with the cost of living are appreciative of this momentous occasion.

And... badging one of the lines as the “Windrush line” is about as patronising as it gets. Many victims of the Windrush scandal are still waiting for compensation!

Dr Anthony Ingleton

Sheffield