Hung house

A missing link spoiled the constructive views expressed by John Sturrock of the Core Solutions Group on how a hung parliament might be managed (Opinion, 4 May). It is the need for fixed term parliaments.

Elaborate mediation schemes between the parties, in the event of one having no overall majority, are all very well. The reality is that whoever is asked to form a government after Thursday will be constantly on the lookout for a favourable shift in public opinion.

All the goodwill about party co-operation and mediation schemes will count for nothing if the largest, governing party scents the chance for an overall majority. That may well mean another election within a year. It will be significant for Scottish politics. Has anyone considered the possibility of the Holyrood elections and another general election being held on the same day next year?

Changing the Westminster voting system is the path to restoring public confidence after the expenses scandal. There is a chance of it coming about if no party has an overall majority. But the power our unwritten constitution gives to the Prime Minister is formidable. The power to call an election whenever he or she likes undermines the quest for real change.

BOB TAYLOR

Shiel Court

Glenrothes

Why do so many articles in the media talk about a hung parliament being best for the country?

Surely it is obvious that this country is in a deep economic crisis, which has affected the general way of life of the electorate. The only way out of this crisis is to take drastic measures. Is it because we are afraid of these drastic measures that some people want a hung parliament?

GRAHAM PILLAR

Kyle Road

Irvine