The Prime minister needs a car. All of Jamaica needs to commend him for his prudent and selfless stance in this climate of economic uncertainty. He has certainly displayed that he is willing and able to lead from the front.

However, the Office of the Prime Minister is bigger than all of us and we should approach it with dignity and reverence.

Treat with respect

In light of this, all matters relating to that office must be treated with the utmost respect, including the fact that the prime minister must not be seen as operating in a vehicle that may break down at any time because of mechanical trouble.

Lest we forget, a 16- year-old vehicle generally can get only third-party insurance which is the insurance sector's way of saying that such vehicles really should be written off.

Security issue

I would hate to see the prime minister break down on a dark street late at night. It is a security risk for him to be in a vehicle that it is unreliable - and it is downright embarrassing.

So, while I commend the prime minister for his frugal stance, I say to him that we need to continue to protect the honour and dignity of the office. We may not be able to afford 10 bulletproof vehicles in a fleet for the prime minister, but surely we can afford one vehicle that drives.

I am, etc.,

HAROLD MALCOLM

bruce_26@hotmail.com

attorney-at-law