Let top parties rule

I think it's time for the electorate to fully appreciate what NZ aspired to achieve when we voted for MMP.

The traditional notion of one party in power and another in opposition should have been tipped out by MMP. Winners and losers is anathema to MMP.

MMP gave the opportunity for elected officials to more accurately reflect the aspirations of the electorate. I don't think it was ever an intention to allow a minor party to call the shots although that clearly, at the time and now, is/was the unpalatable and sickening result.

So let's grow up. How about we govern by our MMP wishes? Let's create a Parliament that makes new law according to the folks they represent. Forget the political party. It's a thing of the past. The democratic outcomes should simply be representative. Not a conscience vote by any means, but the MP needs to be in touch with the electorate and make a call accordingly. Call it “representation”.

Simple rules will make it work — your MP is your voice, he or she votes in the house according to the electorates wishes and is not hamstrung by the party vote. This is democracy — it's people being truthful.

So, if we want to start by satisfying about 90 per cent of voters, make Labour and National a governing body and let the MPs of both work hard to achieve the best results.

I can't understand why a nearly majority party would team up with a minnow, just to get its own way. Or indeed, why we should allow the minnow to call the shots. It's just not right and it's just not democratic. Chris Lee, Rangiora.