Commenting

Readers are encouraged to take part in discussions by commenting on articles as well as by responding to the comments of others. Comments will be published unconditionally to facilitate the free flow of discussion, but may be removed later if they break the guidelines below. We aim to encourage thoughtful discussion on a wide range of issues and commenters should bear this in mind when posting. 

Please comment using your real name. Pseudonyms and anonymous comments will not be accepted. Anonymous comments don't carry much conviction, and tend to reduce the quality of debate, often descending into personal abuse.

Be relevant Obviously your comment must relate to the article concerned, and to the inherent issue(s).If you want to start a new debate, submit an article.

Be nice Robust debate is encouraged, but personal attacks on individuals and any personal squabbling isn't permitted. Material which we consider to be defamatory, inflammatory or offensive in any way is liable to be deleted.

Be yourself Use your own (real) name. If you are not prepared to put your name to a comment, then we are not prepared to publish it.

Keep it clean Religious bigotry, sexism, homophobia and racism won't be tolerated. Comments using vulgar and abusive language will be deleted. 

Avoid spam Don't post anything which is designed to promote your business or website or whatever. They will be removed.