We believe a directly-elected mayor would be good for Brighton and Hove and good for local government.

The holder of this new post would be able to speak for the city and make quick decisions when they were needed.

But Brighton and Hove people still have to decide whether they would like a powerful mayor and they will have the chance to vote in a referendum later this year.

The council has to work out what will happen if the idea is rejected and people are being asked to look at alternatives. One is to have a leader and cabinet like the present experimental system and the other is an improved version of the old committee system.

It's s pity that the council fouled up consultation by failing to give people pre-paid envelopes for their replies and getting the reply date wrong.

But that should still not deter people from making it plain what their view is if they don't want the directly-elected mayor.

Committees are cumbersome. They are often mere talking shops.

Having a leader and cabinet is much more efficient. The danger is that democracy can be downgraded at the same time.

Directly-elected mayors are the best bet for a thriving new city. Having a leader with cabinet is the best alternative.

But the council needs to give effective guarantees that under either of these systems, elected councillors will still have a vital role to play.