I share PV Robertson's distaste for the hysterical US presidential elections (Letters, June 27) but do not see that as a reason for maintaining Britain's medieval monarchy.

Most republics choose their head of state in a perfectly dignified manner and enjoy the benefit of being led and represented by a person elected on merit and public respect. Unlike our British monarchs, elected heads of state have no need to clad their entire family in comic opera costumes and ornament them with rows of meaningless unearned medals.

  • Dennis B Stuart, Marine Parade, Brighton