The Editor, Sir:

Having read your editorial of December 8, (A6), titled 'Why not cut the number of House seats', I feel compelled to add my thoughts.

I could not agree with your suggestion more. Can taxpayers of this country really afford the cost of these increases, bearing in mind the shortages in critical areas of the public services because of financial constraints?

Value for money

One really wonders if we are getting value for money for the present 60 members and why more will give us more benefits.

Will these increases create more efficient service to the people who will be called upon to foot the bill?

I would urge the Electoral Advisory Committee to accede to your recommendation and reduce the number of seats by one.

I agree that any increase of seats, it must be on an understanding that there will not be any increase in the pork barrel.

I am, etc.,

A. A. McCREATH

mccreathandrew@yahoo.com