SIR – Incredibly, another scandal involving a Lib Dem minister engulfs the coalition after less than two months in office. Although the latest one does not involve expenses, thank goodness.
However, when the MP in question stood for election on a platform of stable, long-term marriage and family values, it does seem odd that his loyal wife appears to have been dumped for another so soon afterwards.
In such circumstances, I do not believe either David Cameron or Nick Clegg can simply shrug this off as ‘personal’, and must do something to restore public confidence in their administration.
For example, in the Middle Ages, people used to have their integrity tested in a ‘trial by ordeal’ – although 21st century health and safety rules might preclude this. Perhaps the more recent example set by the former Conservative shadow Home Secretary David Davis MP could provide a solution both for Chris Huhne and all concerned?
Mr Davis took the unusual step of resigning his seat over a policy disagreement with his party, then stood for election again in the by-election this caused! He was returned to office with an increased majority and honour apparently satisfied.
If Mr Huhne is not sacked or resigns his ministerial post, may be he ought to consider such an option in the interest of democracy, always assuming he was re-elected as official party candidate?
D S Boyes, Rodley Lane, Leeds
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