Empty slogans that strive for success
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Version 0 of 1. Peter Bruggen wrote of his brother’s dying breath (Letters, 6 March). A few days ago, as my mother was lying semi-conscious, I told her, “You’ve done everything you have to do in life. You’ve done it really well. You don’t have to do anything else. You can rest as long as you want.” She answered, “That’s nice.” Those were her final words. Her peaceful state before death was wondrous.Nic MadgeSt Albans • Interesting to note the slogans in schools to give “100% Everyday” and “Excellence is a habit” (Could this man transform your child’s education?, 11 March). May I propose “Putting meaningless slogans at the heart of all we do”? Can other readers do better?Dr Les GarnerLondon • It was the women of my mother’s generation who blazed a trail for me. Serving as WRAF in the second world war and the following years, they opened the door to women’s service in today’s RAF. But we, as a society, too often forget the debt we owe to these women who served alongside their male colleagues defending the UK in the war and beyond. The RAF Benevolent Fund exists to support the entire RAF family – WRAF, wives, widows, and partners of serving and retired RAF personnel. It has long offered financial support to those in need and is offering an advice and advocacy service – irrespective of financial need – to help the RAF family navigate the maze of NHS and local council services. This Mother’s Day, I encourage sons and daughters of WRAF and RAF veterans to make sure their parents know that help is available if they need it or to contact the RAF Benevolent Fund on their behalf at 0800 169 2942 or www.rafbf.org. Air Vice-Marshal Elaine WestRoyal Air Force • In the 80s (Letters, 10 March) Thatcher’s government created the false opposites of “militant trades unionists” (who went on strike) and “moderate trades unionists” (who didn’t).Dudley Turner Westerham, Kent • Some question the right of future SNP MPs to take part in the government of the UK (Tories enlist Salmond in war of election campaign posters, 10 March). Surely this is profound illogic. Since Scotland voted to remain in the UK its elected representatives have a right to participate in its government.David ButlerLondon • The piece about a Manhattan flood barrier (High and dry …, 10 March) tells of a shoreline “furnished with undulating berms”. Should we warn Inspector Clouseau?Nigel MossBuxton, Derbyshire |