Fears Covid cure will prove more harmful than the virus

I’m not always in agreement with Peter van Onselen but his column on the state of this nation was excellent (“Squabbling states still run their own race”, 2-3/10). I came to Australia in 1982 and found a country that was relaxed, young in approach and style, and open to ideas.

The past 18 months have been incredibly disappointing for a variety of reasons largely occasioned by Covid-19, and have wrought untold damage to the federation. It can certainly be argued that the country is over-governed with a federal government, eight states and territories, and 537 local councils, but the flawed national cabinet has exposed a real problem with the Constitution – not least that the states can close their borders and an Australian passport made redundant.

I agree with van Onselen’s reference to constitutional reform, although it’s impossible at this point to imagine how agreement could be achieved. His final paragraph is spot-on. We are certainly not all in this together.

Robin Billen, Toorak, Vic

James Allan (“Covid hysteria built on ignorance’’, 2-3/10) concisely casts the relative risks of Covid death into sharp relief. Simply, the risks of death from cancer, heart disease and diabetes are significantly greater than from Covid, yet these diseases have never led governments to suspend personal liberties, destroy businesses and families, ramp up mental health issues and convert our democracies into politically opportunistic police states. When in time we reflect on this period, we will see the cure being more harmful than the disease.

Peter Lynch, Hamilton, Qld

Contrary to what Katrina Grace Kelly believes, not everyone wants to be controlled by big government (“Anxious wait for the vaccinated economy to begin”, 2-3/10). The Prime Minister answered reasonably that vaccinations wouldn’t be mandatory and remained a personal choice. Although I chose to be vaccinated, as, being over 60, Covid poses a risk, I respect the rights of people to choose what to do with their own bodies. Kelly seems happy to allow Daniel Andrews to dictate how people should live their lives. As I live in Queensland, another Labor stronghold, I’m sure the same authoritarian decisions will be made regarding vaccinations and entry to businesses.

Glenda Forster, Bilinga, Qld

Double trouble

“Australia can’t be trusted.” These traitorous words were uttered by Malcolm Turnbull and backed by Kevin Rudd (“Self-interested warriors”, 2-3/10). When their time is up, our prime ministers exit the political stage with dignity. But not this duo. They’ve been kicking and screaming ever since they were shown the door, blaming everyone except themselves for their political downfalls. Chris Kenny says that of the six former leaders alive today, only Rudd and Turnbull seek to undermine the current government and, in doing so, damage the national interest.

Writhing in resentment and bitterness, they massage their bruised egos by turning to Twitter and appearing on the taxpayer-funded ABC.

Kenny’s use of Marlon Brando’s famous line “I coulda been a contender” goes to the heart of what’s gnawing at Kev and Mal. Do us all a favour and leave the rostrum once and for all. You have nothing to add to the national debate except negativity. It’s time for you to move on.

Dale Ellis, Innisfail, Qld

Makes zero sense

Paul Kelly provides a realistic look at the government’s dilemma over climate change policy (“PM’s climate challenge is to take on an emission impossible”, 2-3/10). While there are many who argue we should have no part of the net-zero emissions paranoia, the fact is climate change is real and, even though our contribution may be minuscule, we must make the effort to reduce or preferably “zero” it. The majority of the population seems committed to this task. Politically, Scott Morrison walks a tightrope with the upcoming Glasgow climate conference. Indications are he won’t go; fatal mistake. He can’t let his predecessor, Malcolm Turnbull, take centre stage, which he will if Morrison isn’t there. Turnbull is the ultra egotist who still believes he speaks for the electorate. Don’t give him the space.

John George, Terrigal, NSW

Build a strong case

Good on “a large group of centre-right elder statesmen, senior former defence department figures and leading think tank experts” for urging the government to abandon plans to build submarines in Australia (“Plan to make nuclear subs here is dead in the water”, 2-3/10). Defence acquisitions should never be based in any way on creating jobs. Best bang for buck in terms of capability and operational costs should be the only criteria.

Peter O’Brien, Kiama, NSW