Why my poppy sends a message

Sir, – At this poignant time of year I am reminded of elements of the argument against wearing poppies that are rarely if ever mentioned. It is not the people who fight a war that create that war, it is their political, cultural or religious leaders who do so.

Therefore, while the Act of Remembrance recognises those who made the sacrifice, far from glorifying war it serves as a salutary reminder to our politicians that it is their rhetoric and calls to defend the motherland – which usually involves attacking other’s motherlands – which is the problem. Compounded of course by the military-industrialists who make huge profits from that misery.

Politicians start wars and it is the people who pay the price for ending them. And I speak as an ex-soldier with 15 years of service.

Nick Cole. Balmacron Farmhouse, Meigle.