THIS week’s ramblings are unlikely to make me popular with some of my Tory friends and 'enemies'.

As you’ve probably gathered by now, I am a political anorak and the prospect of the forthcoming referendum on the Alternative Vote (AV) really gets my juices going.

Yes, I know, I need to get a life! I’m in the odd position of having to say ‘I agree with Nick’ – a statement that goes against every fibre in my being.

I am actually very keen on AV. I know it’s far from perfect but it beats the ‘First Past The Post’ system we currently employ to elect our government.

‘What’s this got to do with Rossendale?’ I hear you say.

Well, actually quite a lot. The Alternative Vote system would put the power back into the voter’s hands, meaning we could select the person who was the right candidate for Rossendale, rather than it just being a swing seat.

To be honest, I don’t hold out much hope of AV winning, or there even being much debate about it, because, as I’ve said a million times before, the real winner will be the apathy party.

I’ve tried to enter into a debate with a number of my political cronies about it but their eyes start to glaze over, as if I’m talking a foreign language.

Sam Greenwood, a legendary left wing sparring partner in the valley, thought I was talking about airconditioning (I’m pleased to say he soon got himself up to speed).

In my fifty-odd years I have seen truly massive changes in this country, so why should we stick with a voting system that is decades out of date and designed for a two-party system?

I’ve listened with interests to all the reasons trotted out by the ‘NO’ campaign and, frankly, they are weak and predictable.

When the Conservatives elect a leader, what system do they use? First Past The Post? No, a form of Alternative Vote. I say what’s good for the Tories, is good for the electorate.

Mind you, I’d also introduce compulsory voting, with 'a none of the above' box.

That stands no chance, of course, because it would be too much like democracy.

With AV, at least you have to decide whether you are a 'localist', or merely casting your vote for the national picture.

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