The Editor, Sir:

Ken Jones' letter 'PM's role in appointments' in The Gleaner (November 27) made quite amusing reading. As a reply to my letter, it fails to deal with any of the points I made.

Instead, Mr. Jones suggests that I might share the view "that the Government elected by the Jamaican people should have no say in the appointment of a Solicitor-General".

I have never put forward that view. He then proceeds to argue with the imaginary proponents of that view. I will let these imaginary people answer him.

However, for Mr. Jones' edi-fication, there are some of us who believe that the power of Government should not be absolute, and that one of the purposes of a constitution is to protect citizens from a Government that may seek to have absolute power.

Firm rejection

He should also recall that during the 1970s, attempts were made to have the civil service in total conformity with the political views of the then Government - the Pickersgill committee was set up for that purpose.

That policy, along with others, was firmly rejected by the Jamaican people in 1980.

He also suggests that I should take issue with the Government of Trinidad and Tobago because of certain clauses in their constitution. But, as a guest in Trinidad and Tobago, I would not insult the kind hospitality they have shown me by interfering in their domestic matters.

I would, however, note that there is vigorous debate in Trinidad and Tobago on how their constitution may be improved.

In political matters, I will keep my attention focused on Jamaica, which is still my country.

I am, etc.,

HUGH P SMYTHE

10 Schooner Court

Westmoorings

Trinidad & Tobago