The Democracy Trust

Democratic Blueprint

The blueprint for achieving democratic excellence is not based on rocket science...

It is readily achievable if the renewal initiative puts the electorate first. It must (A) give citizens a voice, (B) seek to develop World class politicians, (C) makes MPs more accountable to the people. (D) ensure public money is invested well in political representation in terms of value for money and accountability.

Summary of components of the proposed blueprint:

1. MP Job Description – Electorate focussed/principled aims

2. MP Contract (Service Level Agreement) with constituents

3. Endorsed/Signed MP Code Of Conduct

4. Annual Appraisal/Review By Voters

5. 'Peoples Vote' Initiative developed/rolled out

6. Grass – roots policy making consultation initiatives

7. Website/text/telephone voting policy consultation

8. Facility to recall MP

9. Constituency development plan produced

Components of the proposed blueprint could be supported by:

(A) A facility introduced to consider removing serving MP from office/instigate by-election by:
Independent scrutiny board review re: (i) Serious breach of MP code or (ii) Serious ongoing failure to fulfil MP duties as decided by constituency electorate/democratic consensus.

(B) MP Professional Standards/Public Service Institute to be developed
(Institute Of Political & Democratic Excellence - IPADE) ?.

(C) Complete overhaul of MP expenses/benefits package and work scenario to reflect (a) normal arrangements for the rest of society and (b) the reasonable expectations of the people.

(D) Implement more stringent restrictions on ex-MPs or ex-Ministers taking up paid positions in companies where the MPs had direct involvement/and or previous political influence to provide significant commercial benefit to those companies.

(E) In respect of taxpayer funded visits overseas by Members to make available in the public domain full cost analysis, justification for those visits and outcomes of the visits.

(F) Four year fixed terms of Parliament to be considered.