Most archaic, outmoded method of government in western world must change

Yesterday we were fools, tomorrow we will be fools and in may we are fools, in allowing ourselves and the UK to become the laughing stock of the world by our Westminster masters.

Hopefully, readers of all political persuasions and none recognise that we are subject to the most archaic, outmoded method of government in the western world. Angela Merkel says the british system is a kin to that of the 1700s, which might suit our Eton-educated buffoons as they hide behind pomp and ceremony whilst feathering their own nests and egos.

Should important business take place in a room that, when busy, looks like an illegal cattle truck? No. Are we getting value for money? No. Are the day-to-day issues concerning over 60 million people being attended to? No.

The European Parliament seems to operate in an open and controlled manner. The Scottish Parliament has had 20 years of civilised and constructive debate, although the current government is often criticised for not doing the day job in their quest for independence. This may be true, but what has been happening in Westminster for the past three years?

Two major parties, badly led, not giving a hoot about the welfare of the electorate as they strive for power, maybe hoping that increased food bank use and poverty, low-paid jobs, and the lowest pensions in Europe will take a back seat and disappear.

Change has to happen. We can’t allow our lives to be channeled by self-serving, noncaring politicians in their London cesspit. We must have a system that will enable a fairer society to give hope to the many and not the few, which we have not had since 1979.

SANDY COGHILL Sligachan, Isle of Skye

An interesting letter from Rob Pearson (1 April ) on the need for rules to govern the conduct of politics in this country. He is not alone, constitutional historian Vernon Bogdanor has a book out on this very subject.

I always supported our unwritten constitution, until now, but I am thinking again; it needs wise heads to and they seem to be in short supply at the moment!

WILLIAM BALLANTINE Dean Road Bo’ness, West Lothian