What happened to Boris Johnson’s inspiring brand of Conservatism?

SIR – I am becoming disappointed with Boris Johnson. After dealing so stalwartly with the “rotten Parliament”, he now appears to have lost all his fight, allowing himself to be captured by cautious statists as the country slides ever further into economic decline.

Where is the inspirational confidence that got Mr Johnson where he is, and which is so sorely needed to lead the country out of its seclusion? Where are his radical Conservative instincts? He must get a grip.

Nicholas Dobson Doncaster, South Yorkshire

SIR – This terrified Government is already losing credibility and will pay heavily at the next election for its craven policies.

The exam fiasco, for example, was entirely of its own making. Was it not able to see that preventing students from taking their exams would bring dire consequences? It would have been possible for social distancing to be observed – after all, candidates

Brian Clarke

Canterbury, Kent

SIR – While Boris Johnson apparently refuses to consider sacking incompetent Cabinet ministers such Matt Hancock and Gavin Williamson, he exposes himself to considerable political and public ridicule.

These ministers may try to blame civil servants and Quangos, but the fact is that the buck stops at the top, and they have clearly demonstrated that they do not have what it takes to lead their departments. Sir Graham Brady needs to remind Mr Johnson that loyalty to political allies cannot come at the price of public confidence.

Kim Potter

Lambourn, Berkshire

SIR – Allison Pearson (Comment, August 19) argues that, if Gavin Williamson won’t go, he must be sacked.

I was a diplomat working in London when Lord Carrington resigned as a matter of principle after what he saw as his department’s failures over the Falkland Islands. He didn’t seek to shift the blame. He behaved honourably.

The Prime Minister is admirable in his support of those close to him. But the time has come for him to recognise the damage that is done to the country, the Government and his party when he continues to back someone who is manifestly not up to the job.

Christopher Wilton

Petersfield, Hampshire

SIR – I believe that the Government has done amazingly well to pull us through the worst of this awful pandemic while protecting as many people’s livelihoods and businesses as possible.

The Prime Minister and his team have followed the best medical and scientific advice available. Hindsight is a luxury.

Jonathan Levenson

Minehead, Somerset