Honorifics

I refer to a letter in the Chronicle of November 5 from Meryl Clow regarding the use of surnames in the media, instead of such as Mr or Mrs.

I wholeheartedly agree with this person. I think the use of surnames in the press is indeed most discourteous and lacking in common decency and etiquette. Surnames should be used only by those convicted of a felony. It is time this should change – for the better.

Regarding the editor’s excuse, what a load of balderdash. Fairfax should get back to common decency and courtesy.

I am sure Lady Margaret Spring would not be amused if she was referred to as Spring.