FOR the past few weeks we have been bombarded with messages from all political parties, appeals for support, boasts about questionable past achievements, character assassination of competitors, and promises, promises, promises!

The electorate have been warned about the dangers of lethargy and told to register their supporting votes. Now the hullabaloo is over with the poorest turnout of voters on record since the first world war it is time to reflect on the reason.

A non-vote is not always a waste. For many, it is the only way to express disillusionment -- a method of returning some of the contempt shown by many politicians for those from whom they seek support.

Potential voters have questions that need addressing both at national and local level.

Is the ambition of many candidates to become political masters intent on enhancing personal images, or to be sincere political servants intent on fulfilling the purposes for which they are elected?

The answer from the disillusioned is simple and very, very clear. If you want my future vote you are going to have to earn it.

No more unsustainable promises, followed by frail excuses for failure, or, even worse, silence that implies the promise was never made.

No more thinly-veiled deception, or any act that degrades the integrity of the honour that has been bestowed.

When the overall political act is cleaned up, voters will return to the polls to the advantage of all.

FRANK Perkins (address supplied) .