Shahid Malik calls for more independence in the Commons standards system (Letters, 18 September). I agree, but it is already being implemented. As a result of the review I led last year, the number of MPs on the committee has been reduced from 10 to seven and the lay members are being increased from three to seven. The commissioner for standards, who investigates complaints, has always been independent and will remain so.
Peter Jinman
Lay member, committee on standards
• My initial alarm at the news that my house is host to a million spiders (G2, 16 September) has been calmed by the thought that the deliciously named Ms Reggie Bügmüncher (Report, 10 September) might be there to help.
Duncan Naughten
Harpenden, Hertfordshire
• Is it a sign of the Corbyn times? My newsagent gave me a voucher for a half-price Morning Star.
Bob Hely
Addlestone, Surrey
