I am reluctantly beginning to come round to Ian Bell's persuasive idea that we should ditch the monarchy, especially as I hear that Prince Harry advocates the return of National Service (Why oh why don't we ditch the monarchy, Comment, May 17).
I have to admit though, many years ago I met a posh person in a pub who claimed to know the Royals. He managed to convince me that in real life they are much smarter than people might think and particularly gifted in the arts. I have long held the view that given the royals' artistic, theatrical and equestrian talents, the "Firm" have a unique opportunity to develop an important specialist role creating serious royal pageantry in the great historic places of Scotland. Somehow it rarely happens.
It's a pity, but hey! Turn to page 13 of last week's Sunday Herald and study Jeff J Mitchell's priceless image of Cameron genuflecting to Nicola and ask yourself: "Do we really need a royal family after all?"
Douglas Hunter
Ancrum
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