The killings in Paris were an affront to humanity and freedom. So was the picture you printed on your front page (An assault on democracy, 8 January). The last moment of a helpless person about to be shot should not be published, out of respect for that person and their relatives and friends, by a responsible newspaper. Freedom comes with restraints that are defined by humanity and ethics, as well as by legality. I believe you made a mistake publishing that photograph.
John Gaskin
Driffield, East Yorkshire
• The killing of journalists and police officers in Paris is utterly deplorable. The atmosphere in Brussels is one of deep sadness along with heartfelt sympathy for the families and friends affected. However, it is deeply regrettable that some groups and individuals, including some in the European parliament, are using the tragic events opportunistically to forward their own personal and political agendas. Fanning the flames of division in Europe at such a time is completely unacceptable. Now is the moment to promote, celebrate and unite around Europe’s great qualities of free speech and tolerance.
Molly Scott Cato MEP
Green, South-West England
• Some people take life and their beliefs seriously. You can make fun of them, but must understand there may be a reaction – and you have a choice whether to do so or not. But did the police officers ordered to protect the journalists at Charlie Hebdo have a choice? Shot like animals that were in the way, I hope they are equally mourned. We should remember them when we exercise our right to criticise those who protect us and our liberties.
Chris Hardy
London
• Protestors raised pens in the air in Paris as a symbol of freedom of speech. My Penguin Classic edition of The Qur’an (1974, pages 61-63) has a chapter entitled The Pen, which begins: “By the Pen, and what they write, you are not mad.” Without the pen there would have been no Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen in 1789, and no Qur’an.
Ivor Morgan
Lincoln
• John Mortimer once said causing offence is important and beneficial to humanity. People should be offended three times a week and twice on Sundays.
Malachy Pakenham
St Albans, Hertfordshire
