AS an exercise in democracy, the period leading up to the first elections for the Police and Crime Commissioners has not been exemplary.

Because of a singular lack of communication by the Government about the role and responsibilities of the new-style police chiefs, many people seem to have little idea what, exactly, they are being asked to vote about.

A three-week TV advertising campaign will not combat the widespread ignorance of why these elections are being held.

However, the answer is not, as some have suggested, to give up the opportunity to be involved in the process.That is particularly true in our area where the conduct of senior officers in some of our forces has been the subject of considerable controversy in recent years.

Surely, we should wish to have a say in the appointment of the person who will, ultimately, carry the responsibility of the choosing our chief constables, set policing priorities and see policies through to fruition?

That is the theory and perhaps we should accept that this first election is something of a trial run. Until the first commissioners are in post, the electorate will not truly appreciate just what is expected of the role and the type of character and personality required to fulfil the duties successfully.

Ducking out of our democratic duty will not assist us in any way to develop that understanding.