Expensive row
Prime Minister Gordon Brown's attempt to get parliament's agreement to a referendum on voting reform is likely to make matters worse, not better. He knows the alternative vote is likely to strengthen Labour's electoral prospects. It is simply a device to keep the Liberal Democrats on board in the event of a "hung" parliament.
It is not proportional representation. It will maintain the one-member constituency link which prolongs the Westminster club atmosphere, makes it incapable of internal reform and reinforces outdated practices. The only voting system which will scythe through this is the single transferable vote in multi-member constituencies. That is the real change which should engage all parties.
BOB TAYLOR