Letter: Legal challenge to Bell is absurd

Sir: Clement Freud (My Week, 14 April) was a politician of integrity who during his time in Parliament voted according to his convictions. When I vote for a candidate I expect him to do the same, otherwise our electoral system becomes meaningless.

I should not have to cast my vote for any candidate who will vote according to the wishes of whatever party he happens to belong to. I should be able to trust that my MP will speak his own mind and cast his vote according to his conscience.

We are supposed to enjoy a parliamentary system in this country but as long as the whips wield the power they do, I am unable to choose a candidate on the basis that he will represent me honestly as he and nobody else thinks fit. If we can't get rid of the whips and their bullying tactics, then bring on the independents.

RICHARD WADE

Watlington, Oxfordshire