DMcG,

You think an inquiry is a good idea.

How do we establish what the 'the general populus' think are the important issues? - Hold a phone in?

It must be seen to be independent - of Government and "big business" I presume. You do grant that it won't be easy, which is one hell of an understatement when you consider the subject matter. But let's look at the suggestions:

1) Well I thought that the Law Lords were appointed, but whatever. Now you want it that these Law Lords sit in judgement and do not have to take the same line - What then happens with regard to the findings of this Inquiry? Or don't you want any? If the latter is the case, why bother going to the time and expense of holding this charade.

2) So unlike Peter T, you do believe, and would recommend, that the british public as a whole should be given free access to the information, sources, etc, of the British Intelligence Services in order that they could fully appraise themselves of the situation and make a decision on the conduct of those services and the British Government - It is still absolutely ridiculous.


3) Who decides who these people are "who are trusted"? - Have another phone in?

On the things you detailed that don't help:
i) Keeping things private.

Obviously doesn't help, apart from the fact that following your suggestions up above we will be broadcasting the workings of our security services to the world and it's uncle.

ii) All parties will be represented apparently, with the exception of the Liberal Democrats, at their insistance. They don't want to be seen as being part of any inquiry that can be seen as justifying the case for war - nothing like going into to inquire about something with an open mind.

iii) You mean have this group of government appointed Law Lords elect is own chairman, or the jury, or the "trusted ones" - too damn difficult - have another phone in - don't be surprised if it turns out to be Posh & Becks, although you might be lucky and get Jonny Wilkinson.

To, seriously, make the above suggestions and relate them to anything other than the organisation of the Tennis Club Social you would have to be completely mad.