I AGREE with Peter Wilson’s criticisms of the present electoral system (HAS, June 29), and take the view that it should be replaced with a system of proportional representation.

The issue then is which of a number of systems of proportional representation we should introduce. I saw an interesting one in operation for the academic board when I worked for what was Teesside Polytechnic.

I thought it a good system, but it was necessary to have observers at the count and the way the votes were apportioned had to be carefully explained, and it was something which required observers who were familiar with the system.

In this country there will have to be a consultation exercise, and it will be necessary for a great deal of information circulated on the alternatives that other countries have introduced. I do not think it would be possible to introduce it in time for the General Election.

The progress that has been made is that it has interested the Prime Minister, because from what I recollect it was only Tony Blair who in the past has been interested.

It is important to get it right, and to be able to persuade those who, while they may not have a personal axe to grind, prefer a simple system.

Geoffrey Bulmer, Billingham.