Clerks under cover

SIR – No one visiting the chamber of the House of Lords need fear that an entirely naked neck is a possible hazard, though in other parts of the premises it can sometimes be spotted (Letters, July 5).

Wigs, now unknown in the Commons, still adorn the heads of our distinguished clerks. But for the first time in centuries, uniformity reigns. The new Clerk of the Parliaments has decided to retain the barrister’s wig worn by his junior colleagues and forgo the High Court judge’s wig that reposed on his predecessors.

Since the cost of holding fast to tradition is apparently £12,000, one sees his point. But should we begrudge the price of retaining the appurtenances of ancient offices? Lord Lexden

London SW1