Politicians would not want reforms

From the archive, first published Tuesday 21st Mar 2006.

SIR - I see that the Independent Power Commission has called for sweeping changes in the way we elect those that represent us.

Apparently, we are to have a fair electoral system to replace first- past-the-post, decentralisation of power to local government, greater accountability of MPs to their electorate, the power of the party whips is to be curbed, and a new body is to be created to provide "spin-free" information to the people.

Can anyone see politicians demanding fair elections? Wouldn't that destroy their careers, their bloated pensions and their possible elevation to Europe? Wouldn't the decentralisation of power to local government devastate government policies and wreck the regional governments the Government has set up against the wishes of the electorate?

If we had fair elections, via strict proportional representation, wouldn't MPs have to put the needs of the people before their party? Such a return of power to the people would wreck our membership of Europe - we would be out of Europe's clutches within months. And wouldn't Europe's gravy train passengers be instantly on the "National Handbag"? Wouldn't that save us some £30bn a year? For these reasons alone fair elections will never be allowed here. The politicians have far too much to lose.

N TAYLOR,

Worcester.

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