Brown’s ideas don’t offer the change we need

Power2010 Blog

// All Entries »

Brown’s ideas don’t offer the change we need

29.09.2009 // by Guy Aitchison

Guy Aitchison: When he became Prime Minister, Gordon Brown promised to reform our democracy. He promised this again at the height of the expenses scandal when he talked about giving away power and a written constitution.

Today, in his speech to the Labour party conference, Brown had the opportunity to commit to the real change he has so far failed to deliver. He didn't.

The PM promised a referendum on electoral reform - but not until after the next election and even then only on the Alternative Vote system which wouldn't move Parliament any closer to being proportional. Brown also mentioned a new right for constituents to recall errant MPs - but only when voters are given permission from on high. His commitment to "remove the hereditary principle" in the Lords simply re-states Labour's position in their manifesto from twelve years ago.

Brown clearly understands that reform is needed but the changes he proposes don't go anywhere near far enough. Our democracy needs real reform, not more fudges and tinkering.

Brown's ideas don't offer the far-reaching change we need to rescue our democracy. We have already received hundreds of better ideas from you through the website. If you haven't yet submitted yours, you can do it here. Go on - show us you can do better than Brown!