Dear Editor,

That replacement of the Privy Council is one of the final steps evidencing freedom after emancipation, adult suffrage and political independence cannot be denied. Why then would any right-thinking MP insult our people by asking for their decision to replace the Privy Council through a referendum, when not even Britain asks for that in the Constitution?

Those members of parliament who are asking for a referendum are not only insulting the people, but are unmindful of their duty to free our people from the yoke of foreign nations. However, if they arrogantly insist on a referendum, let us have a referendum: the end of taking another step away will justify the means.

If they are really serious about alleviation of poverty, don't they think the financial cost of a referendum could be better spent to this end while not adding to our insurmountable debt burden? Our people are tired of elections - for a referendum is really an election. The government should be reminded that there is so much in our archives to re-ignite and inflame our minds about slavery and the struggles of our people that a referendum should be a last resort.

Owen S Crosbie

Mandeville, Manchester

oss@cwjamaica.com