Your Letters
Ewan (Letters, Thurs), It depends on how far back in the etymology of democracy you want to go. The popularly used root "demo" is that meaning "common people", or just "people", so India is by far a bigger democracy (35 times the population of Canada). However, previous to that, it meant "district", in which case Canada would hold that crown (nearly five times the land area of India).
Mark Esdale, Bridge
Well, if we are going by the size of the country then Russia is the largest democracy. If we are going by population then it is China.
Alan Addison, Glasgow, UK
And the award for most bewildering out-of-context headline of the year goes to... ""
Mark Williams, Oamaru, New Zealand
Gareth (Letters, Thurs), "aids" is a verb in that headline.
Frederick Heath-Renn, London, UK
Re "Easter eggs are obviously one of the worst examples of excessive packaging you can find." Surely Ms. Swinson means they are one of the best examples?
Jill B., Detroit
So the is claiming "Cabbaging" as a rule? I think it's in itself.
Jordan D, London, UK
Your reporter needs to get out more. These are not "the first of their kind in the UK". We've had them in London for a few years now.
Rob, London, UK
On 10 things we didn't know last week (3 April 2009), item #3, the standard American signal to stop is NOT crossed arms, this is a uniquely government signal. The standard signal used in the motor trades, construction, etc. is two closed fists with palms facing outwards, held out from in front of the body.
snakecitygirl, New Windsor,NY,USA
Is Helen from Lancs (Letters, Thurs), really trying to imply that "wham, bam, thank you ma'am" refers to The Queen? I think there's a reasonable chance that would be considered treason...
Ian, Bristol
"" says the headline. Well even though no 10 official quits, one from No. 10 did...
Anne, Jersey
Re:Was it just me who stroked my arm at 'optimum speed' to find out if it was true?
A very contented Jude, Melbourne, Australia