Number of MPs

There has been some commentary in recent days about the possibility that Westminster may retain 650 MPs due to a potential decision by Lib Dem MPs to withdraw their previous commitment to reducing the number of Constituencies.  This has been seen in Cornwall as removal of the threat of a 'Devonwall' constituency.

However accepting that there should be a reduction in the number of MPs - why should they not bear at least some of the necessary reductions in staffing levels seen elsewhere across swathes of the public sector - I wonder if there is an alternative way forward for at least one political party to adopt for their next manifesto.

If it was accepted, nationally, that Cornwall should have a number of exclusive Constituencies - an approach which I support - then there is some logic to suggest that Cornwall's electorate figure should determine the number of MPs across the UK.  Based on the latest statistics if Cornwall had 5 MPs then, on a proportionate number of electors per Constituency, there would be 563 MPs; this would represent a 13.5% reduction from the current 650.  Adjusting Cornwall's MPs to 4 would reduce the total number to 450, a 30.8% reduction.

Olympic Torch Relay

Strange that at a time when there are so many important issues to be addressed that the next meeting of Cornwall Council has to deal with a motion on the status of the Chairman.  As the motion merely restates what is already the agreed position it does beg the question as to whether the motion is a good use of councillors time. 

Also odd that the motion assumes that Cornwall Council will be represented at Lands End and RNAS Culdrose when, of course, the decisions as to who to invite will rest with the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games.  Some councillors seem to assume that Cornwall Council is so important that there is no question it will be invited to send representatives.

I was under the impression that it is bad manners to expect an invitation and to be pleased if one is received.