Any regular reader of these letter pages knows of my opposition to UKIP and my exposure of their misinformation, and their personal attacks on me in retaliation.

However, as a Green and therefore a great believer in democracy and fairness, I believe an undemocratic act has been committed involving UKIP.

Amjab Bashir, a member of the European Parliament, has resigned from UKIP and joined the Conservative Party.

Leaving aside the policies of these parties, an important issue is raised.

The electoral system used for EU elections is a party-list system and we do not vote for individuals we vote for parties.

The people of Yorkshire gave UKIP enough votes to have two MEPs and now they only have one.

I do not know the rules surrounding what happens when a MEP resigns, but as a democratic principle Mr Bashir should resign forthwith.

Steve Thompson Norman Road, Swindon