London’s rude balloon

SIR – I am appalled and astonished that a grotesquely insulting inflatable is to be flown over the capital, with the permission of the Mayor of London and with the obvious intention of causing offence during the visit of the President of the United States.

I thought we were a country of civility and decency. What message does this send around the world? Is there now carte blanche for other visiting heads of state to be similarly treated?

How embarrassing this rude, childish and disrespectful prank will be for the Queen when meeting Donald Trump. Judith Milliner

Chesham, Buckinghamshire

SIR – What a disgraceful example Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, is setting by allowing a giant balloon depicting President Trump as a baby to fly over London during his visit next week. Rather it is Mr Khan who is the petulant baby, bearing a grudge against Mr Trump.

With the Government making a complete hash of Brexit we need any friends we can get. Jane Reed

London SW10