Released 18 June 2003

Charter88 welcomes Tony Blair's "essential acts of constitutional modernisation" which were announced today.

Karen Bartlett, Director of Charter88 said: "A new Department for Constitutional Affairs is a step in the right direction, but it is unfortunate that it is headed by an unelected member of the House of

Lords."

"This new department will provide a focal point for constitutional debate, but the fundamental changes to our constitution must have coherence. So far we have had constitutional reform by stealth and subterfuge. What we now need is coherent constitutional debate and a written constitution."

"The long overdue reform of the Lord Chancellor's role has been a central tenet of Charter88's campaign. The creation of an independent Supreme Court is a step towards the proper separation of powers that should exist in a democracy. An independent appointments commission must be put in place, not only to nominate members of the Supreme Court, but all judges. The reforms are welcome, but there are serious questions which remain unanswered."

"Now is the time to seize the moment and let the people of this country have the written constitution they so rightly deserve."

In the Charter88/YouGov opinion poll published last week, 60% of those questioned said that the UK should have a written constitution.