IN quite extraordinary scenes in the House of Commons, a point was driven home by slick screenplay. The powerful lobby and determined campaigner Joanna Lumley has proved formidable against the politicians.

There is a question as to whether the cause of the Gurkhas, however worthy it may be, was used by the media to undermine the Government.

We need to consider carefully the issue whatever it is and its merits.

As much as Joanna Lumley has brought home the injustice, her campaign has been a well stage-managed piece of political drama performed for primetime TV.

Seeing someone in a position of influence humbled by a “star” is one thing, but are there not many more compelling social concerns that demand attention?

What impact would us mere mortals have if we staged such a coup in the cause of justice? – Bernie Walsh, Coxhoe.

WITH reference to Ian Sadler and J Moffatt (HAS, May 7), who expressed their discontent with MPs Alan Milburn and Phil Wilson over the Gurkha vote, I suggest that before the next election we, the voting public, should tell those who select the candidates who we wish to be put forward and who we do not wish to be put forward!

If we do not like the way any politician of any political party serves us, then we should let the organisers know that those persons will not be voted for.

It’s time the dog started wagging the tail. – Keith Bell, Newton Aycliffe.

HOW on earth did Joanna Lumley at the age of 63 become involved with the Gurkhas? Is she short of money and has a good agent trying to bring her back into the limelight?

The cause she is fighting for is a just one. These were some of the toughest soldiers in the armed forces. But most younger people will wonder who she is. – JM Gowland, Heighington.

I HAD always thought that Beauty and the Beast was a fairytale. Now that Joanna Lumley has met Gordon Brown I’m not so sure. – Martin Birtle, Billingham.