Right to protest

Mark Openshaw (Letters, 31 July) says that there is no need for demonstrations in a mature democracy. It would appear that the rich tapestry of historical and contemporary political protest and demonstrations has entirely passed him by.

In 1842 and again in 1926 there were the general strikes. In the thirties there were marches by the Chartists, the Jarrow March and many marches and demonstrations for women’s suffrage. More recently there was the miners’ strike in 1984.

There have been marches against nuclear weapons, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and against the poll tax, against globalisation and for civil rights in Northern Ireland. And that is to name but a few.

All these protests have played a part in shaping our history, but for some reason when demonstrations like these are associated with Scottish independence for various contributors they are vulgar and unnecessary.

I wonder what is is they are frightened of?

GILL TURNER Derby Street, Edinburgh

I was in Inverness at that time of the All Under One Banner pro-indy march and I saw what was going on in the street during the march. Mark Openshaw’s summary vividly and accurately reflects the impression I got from the scene unfolding in front of shoppers and tourists.

I also agree with him that, although loutish demonstrations are covered by freedom of expression, there are more civil, respectful and rational ways in a mature democracy to discuss controversial issues and opinions. Neither the noisy marchers and their engine-revving motorbike squadron nor the small crew of equally noisy counter-protesters added anything constructive to the debate.

As a citizen of this country, all I have to say about the whole sorry spectacle is this: Not In My Name.

REGINA ERICH Willow Row, Stonehaven