Letter: Bryan Gould's legacy for Labour

Sir: For 20 years I have worked and co-operated with Bryan Gould, and have valued his quality of thought, clarity of expression, and his understanding of the historic cause of the Labour Party for those whose livings depend on their daily work, and their dependants. Above all, as a constitutional lawyer, he has understood that its purposes cannot be implemented within the increasingly visible legislative cage and effective national constitution imposed by various treaties of the European Community and Union.

He has constantly demonstrated this inconsistency in a manner that has been both compelling, and virtually irrefutable, particularly in the realm of employment. Unfortunately, the electoral system recently chosen in the Labour Party did not reflect either the personal esteem in which he was held, or the support for the causes he championed.

Yours faithfully,

NIGEL SPEARING

MP for Newham South (Lab)

House of Commons

London, SW1

9 February