Sir,
Your list of key election issues (Apr.7) omits the constitution, despite Rachel Sylvester’s timely warning that “a dangerous game is being played with the future of the United Kingdom”. Since the last election the powers of the devolved legislatures have been increased in a piecemeal, ad hoc fashion, creating acute constitutional instability. Scotland has been told that yet more will be conceded to it in the next parliament, but no attempt has been made to examine the impact of further substantial devolution north of the border on the rest of the UK.
It is clear that we need a coherent, long-term constitutional plan for our country as a whole. All parties must be pressed to provide one at this election.
Lord Lexden
Member, House of Lords select committee on the constitution
(Originally published in The Times)