THE MEANING OF “ BRITAIN"
SIR,—Many people are not quite convinced of the accuracy of Mr. Corbett's statement on page 417 of your issue of October 25th that " the use of the beastly word Britain is a poor compliment to Northern Ireland." It has been put to me that the use of the un- official word "Britain " is more and more accepted to mean the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and that it possesses a strong ring. Nevertheless, Northern Ireland rightly insists that the official words " United Kingdom " should always be used. In any event Northern Ireland frequently has just cause to complain of the misuse—often in unexpected quarters—of the designation Great Britain (which in fact includes only England, Scotland and Wales) when dearly the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is intended and meant.
As an example of this, much is written and said as if -the present struggle against Nazi Germany is being waged by Great Britain (and her Allies), whereas in fact the declaration of war was made by His Majesty's Government of the United Kingdom. In other words, Northern Ireland is fighting alongside its fellow British citizens in England, Scotland and Wales.
Incidentally, I think that Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales may well object to the frequent misuse of the worn " England " when
the United Kingdom is meant.—Yours, &c., E. P. NORTHWOOD. Ulster Office, 21 Cockspur Street, S.W. 1.
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