In response to Gaby Hinsliff's article (Two men made mistakes over Mandelson – only one has lost his job. That should haunt Starmer, 24 April), many readers agree that the prime minister holds the most crucial role in the country. It is also one of the most demanding jobs, if executed properly. Therefore, would it not be more beneficial to support Keir Starmer rather than attempting to oust him for an error made in December 2024 that has since been rectified?
Would it not be better to back him in the position we elected him to fill, instead of forcing him to expend time and energy defending himself against relentless adversaries? Would that not be preferable to replacing him with someone chosen by a small faction of the elected party? Can we not draw lessons from the turmoil caused by the previous government's frequent changes of prime ministers?
Michael Goodhart, Grantchester, Cambridge
Sir Olly Robbins mentions an 'atmosphere of pressure' (Report, 21 April). Isn't that what you are paid to endure? All you had to do was approach your superior, the cabinet secretary, and have him speak to the prime minister to cease such pressures. Try telling a police officer, an A&E nurse, or a children's social worker about your 'atmosphere of pressure'.
Nigel Gann, Lichfield, Staffordshire
To those eagerly anticipating Andy Burnham's swift return to the Commons via a byelection (Analysis, 24 April), I say remember what happened to Patrick Gordon Walker in 1964. He was designated foreign secretary in Harold Wilson's government after the general election, despite having lost his Smethwick seat. He then failed to win a byelection in a 'safe seat' and had to resign his post. Are there any safe Labour seats in the current political climate?
John Marriott, Lincoln
Gaby Hinsliff provides a strong indictment of Keir Starmer, but she fails to consider the immense pressure he is under at this time – he is an Arsenal fan.
Paul Francis, Much Wenlock, Shropshire
All this manufactured fuss over the appointment of Peter Mandelson. Has no one ever heard the saying 'Set a thief to catch a thief'?
Pat Makinson, Ramsgate, Kent
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