WHILE England were busy putting France to the sword on Saturday a mighty political battle was beginning outside Twickenham Stadium.
Canvassers chose the day of the big match to launch their 'Yes to Fairer Votes' campaign, calling for reform of the voting system.
Voters across the country will be asked to decide on May 5 whether to switch from the existing 'first past the post' system to 'alternative voting', or AV, in which candidates are ranked in order of preference.
The promise of a referendum on the issue was key to David Cameron securing a coalition with the Lib Dems and the two parties will be campaigning against each other.
Lib Dems, including Twickenham MP Vince Cable and Kingston & Surbiton's Ed Davey, believe the AV system is fairer and would force MPs to work harder for their votes. However, Conservatives, including Richmond Park MP Zac Goldsmith, fear it could confuse voters and give extremist groups a foothold in parliament.
Campaigners outside the stadium, in Whitton Road, on Saturday handed out leaflets promoting the alternative vote.
Campaigner Lizette van Niekerk said: "With AV all MPs will need to work harder and try to represent more of their constituents' interests. Too many MPs have become accustomed to 'jobs for life' in the safe seats created by the current system."
