Coalition impossible

Contrary to what Claire Bonello claims (The Sunday Times. February 24), I never launched an "anti-coalition crusade".

I merely maintain that a coalition government is theoretically possible only if the election produces a Parliament with MPs from more than two parties, with no party obtaining the absolute majority (50% + 1) of first preference votes. In this scenario, there is no Constitutional mechanism for the adjustment of the distribution of seats between parties and the 65 seats elected according to the system used in our elections will be final.

My realistic assessment is that since the electoral boundaries have been drawn up to favour the MLP, this party will have a majority of seats (33 or more) irrespective of the percentage of first preference votes that it garners. Hence it would be in power without needing to forge a coalition with anyone.

To date no one has rebutted my argument. The so-called coalition movement is basing itself on romantic pipe dreams. Common sense is beyond emotions and hang-ups.

Realistic assessments of political situations are not out of this world. An observer in the UK saying that a particular seat in the House of Commons is considered a 'safe' seat for the Conservatives or for Labour, would not provoke commentators to inanely accuse him or her of ignoring or forgetting the electorate.

My assessment is not an attempt at playing prophet, as Ms Bonello tried to imply. It is just a simple exercise of common sense using a modicum of intelligence.