Continuing the journey towards a modern constitution for Britain (Charles Clarke MP)
Article posted by Unlock Democracy
This pamphlet is based on a speech given by Charles Clarke at Labour Party Conference in 2008, at an Unlock Democracy lecture. Our lecture and pamphlet series are intended to provoke debate on and interest in issues relating to democracy and human rights. As an organisation promoting democratic reform and human rights, we may disagree with what our contributors say – but we are always stimulated by and grateful to them.
In this pamphlet, Charles Clarke provides an analysis on what democratic reform is needed now. While Unlock Democracy support many of the reforms he suggests, we do not necessarily agree with his stance on the Alternative Vote or the Secondary Mandate.
Continuing the journey towards a modern constitution for Britain (Charles Clarke MP)
February 12th, 2009 at 5:51 pm
The problem for many of us is that the proposals for change are also the problem. The executive in parliament is far too powerful and the opposition is too weak and again part of the problem. Our system derives from the 17th century. The Electorate under certain conditions should have under the constitution the right to reverse the decision of parliament. This would prevent pressure groups and personality cults from taking us down disasterous routes. The Iraq and Afghan war. These wars were basically engineered by Tony Blair and the result is a serious diminution of our democracy. To some people our army there is no longer The British Army, but a Parliamentary Army. The idea of plebiscites is not ideal. It has faults. However the Swiss model has served them well. It would have to be operated by the Privy Council with additional members. If something like this is not forthcoming then the continuing number of people voting will go on falling.