Mantel’s attack on Royal Family was despicable

You reported last week that author Hilary Mantel described the Monarchy as a ‘self-punishing institution’ facing the ‘endgame’.

Her despicable comments amount to a hate crime. Why should she be allowed to say such things while J. K. Rowling is being pilloried for stating her opinion? Why is it all right for some people to enjoy freedom of speech, but not everyone?

I am angry and distressed by Mantel’s comments and will now boycott her books.

She should apologise to our gracious Queen.

Sue Bailey, by email

Mantel claims the popularity of the Royal Family is in decline, but in fact their popularity has soared recently following Megxit and Prince Philip’s death. As the younger generation get older, they will appreciate tradition.

Emma Smith, Bristol

The Monarchy has lasted more than a thousand years – it’s rooted in the fabric of Britain. It’s going to take a lot more than current controversies or boredom to make most people want to replace them.

Z. Taylor, Dublin

I’ve been saying the same thing as Mantel for ages. The younger generations are just not engaged with the Royal Family.

S. Paul, London

For someone who has made a career and, no doubt, a decent income writing about the Monarchy, and who accepted a damehood, there is more than a whiff of hypocrisy in Mantel’s comments. Perhaps she would like to return her DBE?

O. Lincoln, Surrey

She is not wrong. It is bonkers to think we are sustaining a family purely due to their birthright. Yes, they bring in money via tourism, but tourists would still flock to see the vestiges of the Monarchy.

C. Grant, London

Mantel is just another example of a champagne socialist who ignores the majority of the British people and their admiration of the Monarchy.

L. Anderson, Renfrewshire

The demise of our constitutional Monarchy has been foretold every generation, yet it survives. If the UK wanted a republic, it could be done. The fact that it is not suggests that there is no overwhelming demand for it.

S. Brown, Selkirk

I completely disagree with all Mantel has said. The Queen accepted a job for life and I think the Monarchy will look to King George and beyond.

N. Smith, Gloucester

I think the Royal Family’s days are numbered. The whole institution is archaic and really doesn’t belong in the 21st Century.

A. Rowland, Preston

Brits should keep their Royal Family. The Monarchy is a major part of Britain, and it is what makes it unique. Once it’s gone, it’s gone. Don’t be foolish!

Janice Gibbs, Calgary, Canada