Sir, - It is timely, in the context of the coming British general election, to consider how the Northern peace process could be advanced by a review of the oath of allegiance to the sovereign which elected members of parliament are obliged to swear before sitting in the House of Commons. The British Government, in both the Downing Street Declaration and the Framework Document, has accepted the equality of nationalist and unionist traditions in Northern Ireland.
Consequently, it should now be possible to allow an alternative affirmation of allegiance for elected nationalist members. This could possibly take the form of an oath of allegiance to the European Union, "of which the United Kingdom forms an integral part".
If implemented, such a measure would demonstrate the effectiveness of parity of esteem in practice. It would also encourage Sinn Fein, representing 15 per cent of the electorate, to achieve its maximum role in the democratic system. - Yours, etc.,
Sharavogue, Glenageary, Co. Dublin.