Britain liberated Europe yet can’t free itself from the clutches of the EU

SIR – The decision to liberate Europe was taken in August 1943 and executed less than one year later.

It was a remarkable feat of planning, carried out with determination and courage under competent leadership.

The decision to leave the EU was taken in 2016 and three years later we still haven’t left. Where have the descendants of those talented people who made D-Day happen gone?

They certainly don’t sit in the House of Commons. Our MPs have forgotten that many were elected on manifestos that said they would respect the referendum and uphold the democratic decision of the people. Under a new PM they need to get their collective act together and deliver. Cdre Malcolm Williams RN (retd) Southsea, Hampshire

SIR – In ascribing Brexit to Britain’s yearning to be a global power again (report, May 30), Michel Barnier has entirely missed the point.

The energy and vitality that built the British Empire is what will transform the country from an oppressed satrapy of the EU into a prosperous global player.

Stephen Webbe East Molesey, Surrey

SIR – Britain and the EU have different negotiating objectives.

The UK wants a reasonable trading arrangement, while the EU wants to prevent the UK from leaving. The EU is achieving this objective by insisting on the Irish backstop.

The Tory leadership hopefuls who refuse to use the UK’s main bargaining chips – our security expertise, the £39 billion and trading on WTO terms – are ensuring that Brexit will fail.

John Urwin East Hitchin, Hertfordshire

SIR – I am a Brexiteer and against a second referendum but, if it happens, it should pose three simple questions: Do we leave the EU with a deal? Do we leave the EU without a deal? Do we remain in the EU but adopt the euro? Let’s see how Remainers respond to that.

Philip Tremayne Crowmarsh, Oxfordshire

SIR – If 52 per cent of the electorate say they like biscuits, it does not tell us what proportion favour specific varieties such as Garibaldi or Nice.

Apply this to Brexit, and the vote does not indicate a majority for any particular deal. In such circumstances, surely the democratic process demands public confirmation of any deal accepted by Parliament.

Robert East London N15

SIR – My house was recently burgled; the police say the thieves were looking for money and jewellery.

They emptied all the drawers and cupboards but took virtually nothing – even an envelope full of euros, which they threw all over the carpet.

Were these Brexiteer burglars?

Keith Snell Leicester