Tory in-fighting puts the public off politics

SIR – Back-stabbing is clearly not confined to the Labour front bench (“How Gove’s ‘cuckoo nest plot’ sank Johnson”, report, July 1). Is it any wonder that many people view politicians with contempt?

At least Theresa May seems to be above all this. Let’s hope so. John Taylor Purley, Surrey SIR – Boris Johnson’s decision not to stand for the Tory leadership proves what a brilliant, pragmatic politician he is. He knew that EU members would be negotiating through gritted teeth if he was involved.

Indeed, having any Brexiteer leading the negotiations could work against the best interests of Britain. Theresa May, a quiet Remainer, would probably get a more sympathetic ear.

Both sides know that an equitable working solution must be found eventually, such that the EU and Britain can prosper side by side while we get back our sovereignty. B J Colby Bristol SIR – Michael Gove is not disloyal. Mr Johnson is clever and charismatic, but he is a loose cannon. Mr Gove was right to conclude that he would not have won the necessary backing. John Taylor Lasswade, Midlothian SIR – Theresa May’s longevity as Home Secretary is remarkable considering her many failures.

Under her leadership the Home Office has failed to deport hundreds of foreign criminals. Our prisons are understaffed. She has supported £50 million of cuts to the Border Agency. At a time of rising population, and with a heightened terrorism risk, there are almost 20,000 fewer police officers than there were six years ago.

Mrs May backed Remain during the referendum but was elusive. While she may be a popular among the Tory establishment, she would be an ineffective Prime Minister, and not fully committed to Brexit. We need competent, decisive leadership. Clifford Baxter Wareham, Dorset