The Open Spaces Society, founder of the National Trust, is delighted that the trust is calling on the government to honour its commitment to coastal access (National Trust calls for footpath around English coast, May 26), echoed by Patrick Barkham (Forget HS2, for real renewal rebuild our crumbling coastline, page 26). But the emerging coastal access is much more than a footpath. This innovative plan includes coastal margin, with freedom to roam inland to the first boundary and down to the shore, giving space for public enjoyment and the enhancement of coastal habitats. It’s essential that coastal access is completed not only for the health and happiness of the population but for our declining coastal towns.
Kate Ashbrook
General secretary, Open Spaces Society
• Leading Chinese scientist He Zuoxiu said that his country’s nuclear programme includes risks of “corruption, poor management abilities and decision making capabilities” (Report, 26 May). Would this be the same China that the UK government has contracted to build new nuclear plants here?
Bryn Jones
Bath, Somerset
• The best explanation that I’ve heard for the high status of Latin in the UK education system is the peacock’s tail one: “We’ve got the system so stitched up that not only can we can afford to educate our children privately, we can then waste a considerable amount of this expensive time having them learn a dead language. Just look at those gerundives.” Natalie Haynes (Notebook, 27 May) thinks teaching Latin to Glasgow primary school children will “improve literacy rates”. Bless.
John Cregan
Farnham, Surrey
• In view of the arrests of a high number of Fifa officials and possibly more to come (The stench of corruption, 28 May). Might there be a new programme: Catch of the Day?
David Prothero
Harpenden, Hertfordshire
• While I have some sympathy with the Hull City fans (Report, 25 May), I have seen Crystal Palace relegated five times and have never been on the front page of the Guardian.
Michael Cunningham
Wolverhampton
