Last Post: Politics of rate decisions a matter of concern

Flinging money and mud is about to start (“The one-cut wonder”, 19/2).

Geoff Holdich, St Georges, SA

David Pearl’s outstanding summary of the Reserve Bank’s rate decision-making process also highlights the politicisation of the RBA via Treasury (“Bullock’s gamble may pay off, but hits RBA credibility”, 19/2). This is deeply concerning given that our democracy relies on independent advice from the public service.

Geoff Davey, St Lucia, Qld

So, by all appearances it was an election stunt to trick the electorate (“RBA pushes back on hopes of further rate cuts in the face of inflation”, 19/2). As inflation continues to rise, so will future rates – but after the election.

James Hein, Hackney, SA

The soft landing Jim Chalmers keeps talking about has gone on for so many years, it has become harder with age.

Paul Haege, Darling Point, NSW

Rate reduction may be good for mortgage holders but what about self-funded retirees?

Sheila Duke, Bulimba, Qld

With the interest rate cut announcement we are about to re-enter the triennial dog-and-pony show known as a federal election. We will surely all note a large increase in examples of a staple of democracies – namely, that what passes as “good politics” is so often, in reality, lousy government. This occurs mainly because a big part of the electorate fails to do its democratic duty in holding politicians to account.

LJ O’Donoghue, Lorne, Vic

I was struck by the supreme irony of a senator saying of Australia’s vice-chancellors that “there is no other job in Australia where you can be paid so exorbitantly while performing so badly” (“Right or wrong, VCs face a hiding on pay”, 19/2).

Wendy Edgeley, Denmark, WA

There are many ways to describe the US and Russia discussing how to divvy up Ukraine’s land and resources between themselves but peace talks isn’t one of them.

Sue Lester, Grange, SA

Many are taking potshots at Donald Trump, who is an easy target right now, but these critics should recall the refrain: “Hey, hey, LBJ, how many kids did you kill today?” It played a part in stopping the Vietnam war. Surely a negotiated peace in Ukraine, however imperfect, is worth a try?

Nick Palethorpe, Turramurra, NSW

Why is a train driver paid more than a paramedic?

Richard Henry, Daruka, NSW