Hyper-politicised Kavanaugh case must put fairness first

Please refer to the opinion piece by Gavin Esler, Blasey Ford and Kaepernick: twin symbols of America's deep divisions (October 2), it is indeed true that the sexual assault accusations levelled by Dr Ford at Mr Kavanaugh, US President Donald Trump's Supreme Court nominee, have become a political tussle between the Democrats and Republicans in the US.

This has descended into a proxy battle on the legacy and mandate of Mr Trump. I doubt whether Dr Ford or Mr Kavanaugh will be able to muster enough evidence to change the minds of those who have already picked a side. Of course, justice must be done following a thorough and fair investigation.

If the accusations are found to be true, Mr Kavanaugh should face the consequences. Meanwhile, if they are erroneus or falsified, a potential Supreme Court justice’s career should not be destroyed.Unfortunately for both parties, this issue has developed into a political football, which is far bigger than either of them.

Rajendra Aneja, Dubai

Workers need protection in the gruelling summer months

I write in reference to your article Warning systems could protect workers from summer heat, say health experts (October 2): Gillian Duncan's article was good to read. The recent study by health experts reveals that warning alarms could be the best way to protect labourers working in the hot summer from developing unpleasant health conditions.

It is important to care for those who build our roads, homes and offices and the UAE is already doing so. I’m sure authorities will pay close attention to this study.

K Ragavan, Bengaluru

Sustainable food growing will be vital for the region

I write in reference to your article New farming method to grow strawberries in Dubai bears fruit (September 30): this is so great. The region will increasingly become reliant on this type of solution to be sustainable, and this particular concept – growing strawberries in recycled shipping containers and selling them in local supermarkets – looks great.

I’d love to try one of these strawberries to see if they retain all their flavour.

Name withheld by request

We should try to understand all the cultures in the UAE

I refer to Peter Hellyer's column Cultural understanding will be the key to a happy retirement in the UAE (October 2): Mr Hellyer makes the point that retirees will need to understand Emirati culture if they are to stay here long term. It is a very valid argument, but I would suggest broadening it out. Considering the majority of residents in the UAE are not Emirati, cultural understanding is also required when dealing with Pakistanis, Indians and Filipinos. It is vital to understand the culture of these other nationalities as well if you want to live your final years happily in the UAE.

Mary Smith, Dubai