LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

When it comes to tariffs, we need a judicious balance

I refer to your article Trade wars are ‘easy to win’, says Donald Trump as he lays down gauntlet to metal industries (March 2): the tariffs on imports of steel of 25 per cent and on aluminium of 10 per cent will augment the cost of cars and construction projects in the US. Countries like India have also increased their tariff barriers in the new wave we are witnessing of protecting local industries. The duties on crude palm oil and refined palm oils have been augmented by 14 per cent in India.

There is no need to erect so many tariff walls between nations, which will augment prices of products and services for the common man. Nations must source raw materials from anywhere in the world, at the most economical prices. Ostensibly, the raising of import tariffs is to protect local industries and jobs. However there has to be a judicious balance to avoid an increase in prices and depressing of demand. Rajendra Aneja, Dubai

Sport is a powerful way of making peace and friendship

Your editorial Sport is a force for unity and peace in a troubled region (March 1) was a thoughtful and moving read. There is no doubt that sport is a connecting factor for peace and friendship. One hopes that the recent Basra football match between Saudi Arabia and Iraq will re-energise their ties and lead to a strong bilateral relationship. A good start in the region. K Ragavan, Bangalore

David Cameron has only himself to blame for Brexit

I refer to your report David Cameron: Calling Brexit referendum was inevitable (March 2): well, Mr Cameron, we could have told you so. It’s not like you weren’t warned.

Scotland voted to remain in the European Union. English voters elected to leave because they are afraid of immigrants. Scotland is the last colony of England – a land forced to live with a terrible situation it didn’t vote for. Mary Smith This is first-class revisionism. A referendum was Mr Cameron’s way of managing the anti-EU brigade within his party. It was needless and backfired massively. Name withheld by request

Crimefighting duos are twice as effective in getting results

I refer to your report Dubai and Abu Dhabi Police join forces to arrest pair accused of stealing Dh1.5m from Bentley (March 2): congratulations to the police on their excellent work. Asyah Elisabeth Meel, Abu Dhabi

Contractors need to maintain higher levels of safety

I refer to your article Fire breaks out at Reem Island

construction site (March 2): in my experience, the level of safety on construction sites is concerning.

I regularly see mess left regularly behind by workers on the mangroves and surrounding areas on Reem Island. Not cleaning up is a clear example of a potential fire hazard. Name withheld by request