IF I were Nick Clegg, I would make an open statement as follows:

Labour and the Tories are very close to each other on their plans for government and we are very close to them on most things. They both now promise a referendum on Alternative Voting PR. That is like offering the wrapping of a sweet and keeping the sweet for themselves.

The first of them to promise a full referendum on PR with single transferable voting included on the voting form, and a firm promise to stand by the result will get our request to join them in government.

If neither of them are prepared to let the people choose on this issue, we will walk away from both and use our independent power in Westminster.

To any Lib Dem MPs who want to leave the party and join with one or other of the other parties, they are free to do so.

George Appleby, Clifton, York.