Editorial Comment:

sir – Nick Timothy (Comment, October 14) says this is “crunch week” for Brexit.

If we do not leave the EU because of the devious machinations of politicians, the consequences for our democracy will be dire.

What form the public reaction will take is difficult to predict, but one thing is certain: our politicians will be held in utter contempt for a generation for torpedoing the result of the largest democratic vote in our history.

Cdre Malcolm Williams RN Southsea, Hampshire

sir – It is disgraceful that certain politicians – ex‑tory ministers no less – are planning to scupper the Prime Minister’s Brexit plans.

It shows that their personal vendettas are more important to them than the country or the voters. They talk about democracy when it suits them and when they get what they want – but when the public expresses a different view they abandon any adherence to the principle.

Philip Hammond, David Lidington and Dominic Grieve, in particular, should be ashamed of themselves. They are betraying the Tory party and the people of Britain. Let’s hope this is remembered at the next election. Michael J Cole

Wolstanton, Staffordshire

sir – The Government must not accept the EU’S intransigence, and its attempt to effectively annex Northern Ireland.

However, the Benn Act gives the EU no incentive to accept Boris Johnson’s reasonable proposals, and he will likely be forced into applying for an extension to Article 50. This will at least precipitate a general election – unless, of course, Labour MPS find another excuse to delay their date with destiny.

When, with luck, the Conservative Party is returned with a majority, the strategy must be to re‑offer the EU the current proposal – and, if it continues to reject this, to leave without a formal agreement.

The country can be thankful that it has a Prime Minister with the determination required to lead us through the next few crucial months. Brexit Party supporters will need to vote Conservative if Brexit is not to be lost for good. John Sharp

Great Glen, Leicestershire

sir – Boris Johnson and Dominic Cummings are making a grave mistake if they assume that an electorate furious with the shenanigans of Remainers will automatically back the Conservatives in an election. I am sure there are many voters who, while sympathetic, will simply not believe any promises they make.

If there is a choice between voting for the Brexit Party and the Conservatives, I believe a great many will choose the Brexit Party. Only if its candidates stand aside will the Conservative box get a tick. I do hope that the Tories are sensible and come to an agreement with Nigel Farage. Emma-louise Bowers

London SW11