Voices is the Dorset Echo's weekly youth page - written for young people by young people.

THE LATEST trend of hurling milkshakes at your least favourite politician is a threat to free discussion.

Not only is it cowardice, it builds into a growing climate of intimidation.

There is only one thing that should be hurled at politicians - a well thought-out argument substantiated with evidence.

Brendan Cox, husband of murdered MP Jo Cox, said: “I do think we stop this here and say that yes, of course protesting is absolutely legitimate, but throwing things at politicians or hurling abuse at them frankly isn’t.”

Mr. Cox is spot on in saying that this climate of intimidation needs to stop.

However ridiculous somebody’s world view may be, there is no excuse to attack them for their beliefs. Attack the beliefs, not the person.

If you see somebody’s views as outrageous and incompatible with your own, research your views and the potential counter arguments with an open mind.

Do not be afraid to challenge people for their views, but do so maturely.

There is nothing to be gained from screaming buzzwords and insults.A better alternative is to challenge the narrative they are pushing with an argument backed firmly by statistics.

Mutual respect is also important, something that appears to have been abandoned amidst the exchange of milkshake missiles.

Treat people as you want to be treated; if you are unwilling to be the recipient of a milkshake to the face, consider not hurling one at others.

Can we all return to civil, mature discourse now?

By Oliver Streather-Paul