Swiss role

The UK/ U.S ./ eU so-called ‘democracies’ elect representatives who are free to ignore voters’ wishes — which can create extremism. Switzerland 700 years ago was more democratic than we are today: the Swiss four- language group referendum democracy union is the best model for a future eU.

The Isle of Man isn’t in the eU, although it’s part of Britain, and the border/customs to and from it aren’t a problem. This could be a solution for the rest of the UK: england and Wales can safely leave the eU, while Scotland, Northern Ireland and Gibraltar could remain in the eU, as they voted.

This would prevent the borders between Northern Ireland and the Republic, and Spain and Gibraltar becoming a problem. The Scottish border could be treated as the Isle of Man border has always been.

The Swiss were told by the eU to give up their referendum democracy if they wish to join the eU, but it is what holds the four language groups of Switzerland together. They have now withdrawn their application to join the european Union.

It seems to me that, in the referendum, the UK realised the eU is undemocratic. Concerns about how welcome eU citizens are in the UK can be soothed by referring to the same anti-eU feeling in other eU members states.

STEVE NICHOLSON , Oxford. DeAR Great British public, I’m French. I came to London in 2001 to work in the NhS. I’m a highly specialised cancer nurse. What were you all thinking! I am off back home — as a result of the message I’m getting from you. I suggest you all lobby your MPs to train a lot more British nurses if you want to receive safe levels of care. Bonne chance!

MARIANNE RENARD, London N1.