THE number of letters appearing in the LT expressing disquiet about the calibre of our elected representatives is growing. Perhaps it is time for the Government to act by introducing an NVQ for councillors.

This would be a two-year course. In the first year councillors could study foundation modules such as Introduction to claiming expenses,' Junketing for beginners' and Practical self-deception.'.

In the second year they would have to deal with advanced material. This would including the core subject Quantifying the gravy train' along with a range of options.

Three that immediately spring to mind are Concepts of fake consultation,' Advanced aggrandisement' and The theory and practice of dubious argument.' I am sure that a course of this kind could make a positive contribution to raising standards in public office.

KEVIN HEY, Castle Road, Colne.