SO much for democracy! Within a few weeks of being chosen as Prime Minister by an unrepresentative 0.25% of the electorate, Boris Johnson has suspended parliament for a five-week period in order to stifle debate on Brexit and to try to push through no deal. His action is reminiscent of a medieval monarch who cannot get his way.

It is now up to those in parliament who still care about democracy to stop Johnson, hopefully through legislation and a no confidence vote. Mass street protests may also be necessary to show the government the strength of opinion.

Those who were brainwashed by the words of the Leave campaign were never told that the most likely outcome would be a no-deal Brexit, nor that the United Kingdom might break up as a result and the Good Friday agreement put in jeopardy. It is time for people to stand up and be counted!

DAVID LEADBETTER

Prospect Crescent, Swanage