SIR – When I travelled to the US recently, I was required at Heathrow to provide proof that I had US entry approval – my Esta documentation – and I had to show my return ticket.

Without those the airline did not dare to carry me because, had I been rejected at American immigration, it would have been responsible for bringing me back.

I do not understand why ferry companies’ check-in processes should not operate in the same way. This could mean that non-British passport holders would have to give notice of their intention to travel in advance – again, compare how the American system treats non-American passport holders entering the country – but in the circumstances this does not seem an unreasonable imposition.

Alan Hetherington

Stillington, York

Church and sexuality

SIR – Certain parishes are moving towards a possible split from their current Church of England membership because of the increasingly liberal position on homosexuality.

While I agree with their theological stance and also fully understand the need to be clear on what the Bible teaches, I believe that a message of love and care must also sent to gay people.

Scripture calls same-sex relations a sin, but it also calls greed for money a sin. We all sin and all need forgiveness: this is the prime teaching of the Gospel.

Rev Fane Charles Conant

Stretton, Shropshire

A swift Brexit will leave everyone a winner

SIR – While it is excellent news that the Prime Minister does not want to delay Britain’s exit from the European Union, one wonders who is meant to benefit from the tedious processes laid down in Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty.

It seems likely that the European Commission would be glad to get Brexit over with as soon as possible. Those who have come from Europe to settle in Britain would be relieved to have their residential status confirmed, while Britons worried about their jobs and concerned about cheap labour from the EU would be happy to know that the influx has finally been stemmed.

Repealing the European Communities Act of 1972 would benefit all of the above. The legislation could then be tidied up in an unhurried, thoughtful manner.

John Myles

Peterborough