AT times of greatest need a country needs leadership. What kind of example has been set by Charles and Camilla in travelling the length of the country to a rural community in the Highlands when it seems he was already showing signs of coronavirus ("Questions over journey to Scotland as Charles tests positive", The Herald, March 26)? I believe his parents have moved to a holiday home in the country as well.

It contrasts greatly with the Royal Family’s refusal to move from London during the Second World War.

His sojourn on Deeside also took place after our First Minister and the UK's Prime Minister issued clear instruction to stay in our own homes at this time.

Alex Brownlie, Strathaven.

BEARING in mind the potential risk to others associated with the unnecessary importation of the coronavirus to a location and possible contamination of sites en route, the criticism of Prince Charles and his entourage’s deliberate flaunting of informed advice on behaviour during the emergency is perfectly valid. In other countries such behaviour would merit a fine, imprisonment or in India apparently being beaten with a lathi. That’s an image I just can’t get out of my mind.

It is frankly risible that during a virus pandemic that the combined efforts of the global scientific community and modern medicine are struggling to contain, that your columnist Alan Simpson ("Charles did not arrive in a camper van so give him a break", The Herald, March 26) and others use the epithet of “extreme republican views” to smear those who dare to criticise the Prince’s actions. Just in case Mr Simpson and others haven’t noticed we now know our world isn’t flat and balanced on the back of a giant turtle, that the Earth is round and orbits the Sun, there are no dragons, no fairies, no witches, some even question the existence of God, yet for some reasons we still have kings and queens. It wouldn't simply be because they are the linchpin that holds together the iniquitous system of class and privilege that the current pandemic is highlighting, surely not?

David J Crawford, Glasgow G12.

I TAKE exception to Alan Simpson's remarks. As the proud owner of a motor home, I telephoned my caravan storage dealer on Monday and asked him to keep my van locked up for the foreseeable future. No holidays for us this year, but a small price to pay in these unprecedented times.

The UK Government’s instruction (not advice) is clear. If you are the owner of a camper van, caravan, static caravan, holiday lodge or second home, you must remain at your primary residence. No exceptions. I believe that it was irresponsible of Prince Charles to travel to Scotland, by whatever means, especially that we are now being advised that he was showing mild symptoms of the Covid-19 virus before he left. He of all people should be leading by example, and along with his entourage, should return home as soon as it is medically safe for him and his party to do so.

Drew Mackin, Irvine.

HOW can a man who does not attend to most aspects of his own personal care be said to be self-isolating?

Tina Oakes, Stonehaven.