Philip C Stenning claims circular and semicircular debating chambers discourage “simplistic left-right political dichotomy” (Letters, 6 March). Unfortunately, his theory is proven wrong by the situation in the US. A “simplistic left-right political dichotomy” is so inherent to American politics that it is literally called the “two-party system” – and yet both houses of the US Congress are set in semicircles.
Mr Stenning also encourages us to search the internet for “Nunavut legislature image” for an example of “respectful political debate”. He could also search for “parliament fight image” and be treated to pages of brawling politicians across the world, who don’t seem at all to have been soothed to consensual dialogue by their gentle, curved chambers.
Rober Frazer
Salford, Greater Manchester
• If Arthur’s round table had worked (Letters, 7 March), he wouldn’t have been killed by his son at the battle of Camlan during the revolt of the younger knights.
Pete Bibby
Sheffield
• How about the war room in Dr Strangelove, a round table that didn’t work?
Mark Ormiston
Isleworth, London
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