Black mark against leader

Sir, – We do not always want to see senior male political figures dressed in the familiar black coat. The Remembrance Day service at the Whitehall Cenotaph, however, is one occasion when conservatism in dress is called for as a mark of respect.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn’s choice of coat and tie on Sunday failed to show that respect to the fallen. Beside Prime Minister Theresa May he was made to look casual, almost dishevelled.

The annual gathering at the Cenotaph is no place to be making personal statements, in the form of dress or any other way. It is a time when gratitude for those who made the ultimate sacrifice should be paramount.

No doubt Mr Corbyn will claim that many paying their respects at ceremonies in cities, towns and villages throughout the country were not all clad in sombre black. Certainly that should not be the final measure of their concern and their sincerity.

He is a man, however, who aspires to lead the country in the not too distant future. He is a man who many at home and throughout the world see as the head of an alternative British government. He should always be careful about the way he presents himself at important public occasions like Armistice Day.

Nearly three decades ago one of his Labour predecessors, Michael Foot, did himself no favours by undue casualness in dress at the gathering. Our public leaders always have a responsibility to project an image which is appropriate to the occasion. Mr Corbyn fell way short of that in his choice of attire last Sunday.

Bob Taylor.

Shiel Court, Glenrothes.