'There are serious concerns when our freedom of speech is curtailed' - Your Letters plus a bridge across the Severn spells the end for Arley’s ferry, in a 1959 picture from the archives
Today’s letters tackle what really worries readers: freedom of speech, school curriculum debates, and social inequalities.
We must all be able to speak
With all due respect to Dr Wynne Jones, I firmly advocate for the right to freedom of speech. To imply that this stance equates to support for "hate speech" is profoundly misleading. The exercise of freedom presupposes that these liberties are exercised with respect and consideration for others.
The core issue today lies with us, the general populace, who have retreated from good manners and a strong sense of morality. I have my own opinions on the reasons behind this decline, as I am confident Dr Jones does. In my view, the retreat from traditional family structures and the decline of Christian faith have contributed to a general fall in standards.
Nonetheless, there are serious concerns when our freedom of speech is curtailed. Such restrictions can, and have, led to unintended and undesirable consequences. Examples include the prohibition of silent public prayer or the inability to openly express gender-critical views within the NHS environment. Additionally, the pursuit of journalists who challenge "acceptable woke ideas"
It can be considered unjust. Jess Carter should not have been subjected to abuse based on her ethnicity or skin colour. If Dr Jones believes her case warrants restricting freedoms for the many decent, law-abiding citizens, then we hold differing opinions.
Martin Bristow, Wolverhampton
