1) Should we remove the uniqueness requirement for net names in the Merit and InterNIC/whois databases?
This is worth cosidering seriously. Withou a whole lot of consideration I tend to be in favour. We should require uniqueness within some local domain such as an organisation or site.
2) My understanding is that RIPE's database does not require existence or uniqueness of net names. Is that correct?
No, we require exitence and uniqueness, although uniqueness is not checked thoroughly for blocks.
3) Do net names serve any useful purpose?
Yes they do! As with all names they make it easier to talk about the object named.
Should we get rid of them altogether?
So this answer is no.
What other people or organizations should be consulted in this process?
I'll copy the RIPE local registries group. Daniel