SIR – I sympathise with the sentiments of D S Boyes (T&A, March 8) but he is mistaken in thinking that anyone can play a part in the legislature of this country without first being elected.

In 1911, the House of Lords was made subservient to the House of Commons, consequently they can only delay, not utterly reject, legislation passed by the Commons.

From time to time, proposals for reforming the House of Lords, generally by introducing an elective element, have been put forward, but, so far, none has been accepted.

Perhaps in the not-too-distant future there will be a move that ameliorates the situation, but don’t hold your breath.

D Rhodes, Croscombe Walk, Bradford