I was much amused by Cllr Dave Smith decrying the demise of democracy on the Dorset Crime and Police Panel (Echo, February 10).

This is from a councillor who regularly takes part in cabinet discussions where decisions are made and rubber stamped prior to any form of public debate.

Too many to list.

The reason is a majority of two thirds is required to veto any proposal to prevent any issue being determined purely on political grounds.

It is noticeable that none of the Bournemouth councillors supported the Police Commissioner and indeed Cllr Smith has previously been outspoken in his criticism of the Commissioner’s role, a view not shared by the rest of Dorset.

Perhaps the failure of their candidate to win the ‘Commissioner’ election is affecting their ability to make a balanced decision. A sure case for de-politicising the role of Police Commissioner.

Along with many others I support his view that his membership of the panel is not worthwhile. He cannot keep changing the rules until he wins.

Geoff Cooper, Methuen Road, Bournemouth