Readers have responded to recent Guardian articles with suggestions on diplomacy with Afghanistan, a new term for climate anxiety, and commentary on welfare cuts and historical remains.
Engaging with the Taliban
In response to concerns over increased diplomatic contact with Afghanistan and the Taliban (15 August), Martin Cooper of Bromley, London, suggests that nations should only use women to negotiate and staff diplomatic bases, and insist on dealing only with women. He argues that if the Taliban desire legitimacy, they should have it on decent terms.
Weather words and delightful weeds
Rachel Papworth of Brighton, East Sussex, reports that she and her friend Nic Ford have coined the term "apranxiety" – a portmanteau of apricity (the warmth of the sun in winter) and anxiety – to help talk about extreme weather. She hopes it becomes common parlance.
Jim Grindle of Formby, Merseyside, writes that soapwort, a weed he once struggled to eliminate, has flourished in current climatic conditions, with its pink flowers popping up everywhere and proving a delight to see.
Thomas Paine's remains and welfare cuts
Christopher Osborne of West Bridgford, Nottingham, notes that Thomas Paine's remains were dug up in 1819, ten years after his burial, and their whereabouts are still a bone of contention.
Murray Gray of Harleston, Norfolk, comments on Reform's proposal to save £50bn from welfare cuts (16 August), suggesting it sounds like something you would put on the side of a bus.
