Sir Keir Starmer has the right attributes to take over as president of Fifa, according to a letter published in response to calls for Gianni Infantino's resignation. David Cronin, from Stockport, Greater Manchester, argues that the Labour leader combines a passion for football with international stature and a reputation for decency, making him the ideal candidate to lead world football's governing body.
Letter Writers Debate Starmer's Suitability
In a letter to the editor, Cronin writes: "This calls for a figure who is passionate about football, has international stature with a network of major political players, and a reputation for decency and integrity. Step forward Sir Keir Starmer." The letter was prompted by an editorial on 7 August that called for Infantino to resign.
Other letters in the same batch cover a range of topics, including a humanist funeral, AI-controlled taxis, the Clacton byelection, and the defence of traditional pubs.
Humanist Funeral Plans and Canal Trust Refusal
Ian Grieve, from Gordon Bennett, Llangollen canal, reveals that his wife's final wish for a Viking-style burial aboard a flaming boat was denied permission by the Canal and Rivers Trust. He is now exploring humanist celebrations of life, which would allow him and his dogs to howl through Neil Young's Harvest LP and Nick Cave's Into Your Arms to give thanks for her life.
AI Cab Confusion and Traffic Chaos
Hannah Kaitlin-Boyer, from Mirfield, West Yorkshire, comments on the report that self-driving taxis are cleared for London streets later this summer. She warns that with a simple "Follow that cab," mischievous passengers could create an endless loop, causing a mega traffic jam as AI overrides common sense.
Clacton Byelection and Comedian Candidates
Shareen Campbell's point about reminding Clacton voters what happened last time a comedian was elected is valid, but Pete Lavender, from Woodthorpe, Nottinghamshire, asks which of the two main candidates she is referring to. The letter suggests ambiguity in the historical reference.
Defending Vertical Drinking in Pubs
Mark Westwood, from Edinburgh, leans to support Simon Jenkins's defence of vertical drinking, the traditional pub practice of standing at the bar. His brief letter ends with a playful "Hic," adding a light-hearted touch to the debate over whether a pub that doesn't allow it is a real pub at all.
