That was 1792, now is 2010

First published: 17^th July 2010

Before holding up the example of US presidential elections, Peter Call ("Indirect election can still be democratic", July 13) should consider that the system was first used in 1792, in a vast country, before the telegraph and rapid travel.

As such, it was probably the most suitable system for the conditions at the time. However, it would be stupid to slavishly copy it in small Hong Kong, which has modern transport and secure communications systems.

I also take issue with Mr Call's statement: "As long as both moderate democrats and establishment figures can stand for direct election."

Is he calling for radical democrats to be disbarred from standing?

What about potential candidates who do not align themselves with the democrat/establishment compass? We live in the 21st century, Mr Call.