Madam, - I find it strange that Noel Whelan ( Opinion & Analysis, July 28th) questions the privileged position of the university graduates in Senate elections, while at the same time pointing out that the universities have returned some of the most interesting and independent-minded Senators. He seems to want "electoral reform", as well as an end to the "cautious, bland consensus" that is currently a feature of Senate debates.
However, any attempt to make Senate elections more "democratic" would surely place more power in the hands of the party whips. This is something which is also feared by those who oppose reform of the British House of Lords. In fact, the debates in Britain show that it is very difficult to find a way of choosing members of an upper house who will show independence without challenging the mandate of the Government.
By offering such a combination, the Senate's system of university seats has much to recommend it. - Yours, etc,
DAVID SHIELS, President, Cambridge University Ireland Society, Cambridge, England.