Ivor Caplin's decision to stand down as MP, which was expected for some time, must increase speculation about Geoff Hoon's future.

Meanwhile, also expected but more mind-boggling, is Councillor Sue John's hope of standing for Parliament.

Even to be chosen as a candidate, one has to show political and social acumen. These were so lacking in her springing upon Hove residents the proposal to turf our much-loved library from the Carnegie building into a room at the Town Hall.

With such questions still in the air about the library as what the "improvements" actually entail, it is one of the hottest issues in Hove.

The Labour Party would do far better to nominate the cool-headed and humorous Simon Burgess as its candidate.

Christopher Hawtree,

-Hove