THE MPs’ expenses debacle merely confirms what we have known for some time. Despite the efforts of some MPs, there is a culture at Westminster which is wholly unrepresentative of what is expected of politicians.

Those elected usually aspire to make a difference, championing a cause and channelling their energies to change and reform for the common good. Or am I missing something, a chapter in political history erased perhaps?

So often we are let down by pledges that fail to materialise.

Too many times there are claims that our politicians become distant from the electorate who supported them and frequently we hear of patronage.

An MP is elected with a mandate. As well as a party manifesto and a clear policy direction, there is responsibility to a constituency regardless of whether those living in it voted for them or not. The link between MP, constituency, Parliament and power has indeed become blurred, if not entangled. Reform of Parliament and the constitution is needed.

Indeed, it is long overdue. It has to be wholesale, not singularly to do with expenses. It is about a code of conduct which MPs need to abide by, ridding us of the decay rooted in power that needs to be lanced.

Bernie Walsh, Coxhoe, Durham.