Reform needed

Whatever the outcome of the General Election on 6 May, a move to a fairer voting system for Westminster now seems inevitable.

It is not inconceivable that Labour could come third in terms of votes cast on a UK basis yet still have the most seats, perhaps even a small majority. Either outcome would not only be morally unjust, but would also make the whole idea of UK "democracy" look faintly ridiculous in the eyes of the world.

Despite the constant cliches about the three "main" parties, we now live in an age where a diminishing number of voters have any connection with them or want to vote for them. This was shown in last year's European elections, when the SNP won in Scotland and UKIP came second on a UK-wide basis.

Whatever parliamentary arithmetic emerges in the wee small hours of 7 May, one thing is clear: this must be the last general election to be held under such an unfair and antiquated system, which surely belongs to the 18th not the 21st century.

GAVIN FLEMING

Webster's Land

Grassmarket, Edinburgh