I wonder if H Hamer has given proper thought to her plea for a return to hanging (LT, June 11).

Most killings are done in the heat of the moment or under the influence of drink or drugs so the threat of the death penalty would have no effect.

Our justice system is not foolproof and innocent people have been sent to the scaffold or made to endure a life sentence.

The death penalty still applies in some Amercan states and it results in convicts being held on Death Row for long periods while appeals are heard: a costly process.

I could happily use the birch on those who inflict pain on others.

Failing that, hard manual labour (no work means no food) and prison ships might be worth considering.

If primary school teachers were allowed to discipline children reasonably and parents supported the teachers’ actions, it might be a start.

E Eastham (via email).