Given the appearance of omicron – the government is right to tighten mask rules

Letters to the editor: our readers share their views. Please send your letters to letters@independent.co.uk

‘Multiple studies show that non-valved masks reduce the risk of infection for both the wearer and those around the wearer’ (Getty Images)

I’m not jumping the gun as there’s still much to learn about the omicron variant, given the risk of the surge in Delta in Europe and the (possible) threat from omicron around transmissibility and reduced vaccine effectiveness, the government is right to tighten mask-wearing in public spaces again for now.

Multiple studies show that non-valved masks reduce the risk of infection for both the wearer and those around the wearer. Masks cost little beyond the issues around medical conditions prohibiting some persons from wearing them, or for lip-reading for the deaf and hard of hearing, and it need only be a temporary measure that is easily started and easily stopped.

Indeed, the responsible among us need not even wait for the authorities to mandate it.

Ian Henderson

Norfolk

Channel crossings

Boris Johnson and Priti Patel speak proudly of their relatives who came from far shores to find a better life in the UK.

Yet both the prime minister and Home Secretary have talked up policies directed against asylum seekers and migrants attempting to cross the Channel to look for safety and prosperity in the UK.

The recent tragic events ought to make them take a more compassionate course, to open the borders and welcome those asking for help and refuge.

Bambos Charalambous

Manchester

Diplomatic relations

Why can’t Boris Johnson and his ministers stop winding up the French and other EU allies? The government is trashing our international reputation, which will make it much more difficult for us to sign trade deals even with the wider world.

How much more short-sighted can this administration get?

Gavin Turner

Gunton

Station nostalgia

Chris Stevenson has asked readers for their favourite train station. All true fans will know that there is no such thing as a train station but when it comes to favourite railway stations, I find it almost impossible to choose. If I am allowed to nominate a station that closed long ago, it would be Portesham on the old Abbotsbury branch where the porter could mend your shoes, cut your hair and then sell you your ticket. Beat that Grant Shapps!

William Barnes

Glastonbury