AM I alone in feeling completely underwhelmed by the lack of information from all parties on the mayoral referendum that is to take place in West Devon at the end of this month.

As an exercise in enthusing voters to use their democratic rights it comes slightly lower than persuading the Taliban for a meaningful discussion on Women's Rights.

Is it due to lack of interest from our political leaders — or is everyone afraid to put their head above the parapet in case the vote goes against them?

So, what to do with my vote? Perhaps a look at the obvious will help me to make up my mind.

1. It would seem that whatever choice is made at the referendum it will result in a change from the current system. From that we must deduce that all parties are agreed that the present system can, and must be improved on.

2. Under both the mayoral and the streamlined system there will be a titular 'head of government', ie mayor or leader of the council. So no real difference there to decide my vote.

3. Where a difference may be seen, however, is in the system supporting the mayor/leader. The former will be able to bring into his 'cabinet' people who are best able for the job, and will, therefore be able, at last, to move outside the narrow confines of party politics. This has already happened in London where representatives of all the major parties serve in the mayor's cabinet.

Looking at these points, then, as far as I can see, the leader system will still result in committees being run by the majority party with the probability that the views of the minority are ignored, whilst the innovative, new mayoral system would be one carried out not on party lines but in the best overall interest of the community whose voices were more likely to be heard.

So is that the point to make? Do I want a system that is very similar to the existing one that is seen to have failed, or do I want a system employing the best people, whether or not they are in the majority party or even elected councillors. (Perhaps I've just answered my questions about the lack of information and interest from our current councillors?)

Obviously each person has to make up their own mind how to vote, and, hopefully, the points I raise may be of interest to them.

Bryan Podmore

47 Redmoor Close

Tavistock