Leading article: AbFab proposal

Women are very welcome at the Garrick, but they cannot, at present, become members. There have been several attempts before to change the rules of this most affable of London's gentlemen's clubs, but all have been seen off by the conservative elements among its distinguished, but generally elderly, membership of actors, lawyers and writers.

Now the actor Hugh Bonneville has taken up the cause and, in a masterly stroke, has proposed Joanna Lumley. In every aspect but her gender she seems an ideal candidate, and her desire to become a member does the club great honour. It is much to be hoped that, in its 180th year, the Garrick will gracefully acknowledge this and amend its constitution.