| Politics |
| The issue: |
Sir George
I have just listened to a Radio 4 programme on the demise of politics I have been interested in politics for all my adult life i have never been more distressed than now.I was shocked and appalled to discover than Parliment is contesting a Freedom of Information request for the disclosure of MP's expenses. It is a principle of any open society that public expenditure or policy making is open to public scrutiny. I am sad to say the only people who take politicians seriously are politicians themselves
I would wish to see the enactment of a Politicians Charter This could include that I will speak honesly at all times I will represent my constituents and not vested intersts I will only claim expenses within a set amount.I do not oppose paying MPs more providing there is transprency and openess. As a public servant I would expect to be sacked for some of the activities followed by some of your colleagues.
Could we not get rid of political parties which suppresses open debate and when will we have an electoral system that reflects the will of the people and not create autocrtoic government on the basis of a minotity of votes cast for a particuliar party. There has been no government since the second world war that has commanded the majority of votes cast |
| Date Issue Raised: |
31 May 2008 |
| My response: |
Many thanks for the email. I agree with what you say about MP’s expenses. The campaign to prevent them being published has made it look as if we have something to cover up, and as if we want one law for the public and a different one for ourselves.
I have published my expenses on my website, and the FAQ under Parliament for April 1st gives more information.
You raise a separate point about the electoral system. (I am happy to say that I get more than 50% of the votes cast in NW Hampshire)
We could move to Proportional Representation, but that can lead to instability in government, and to giving very small parties wholly disproportionate influence. I think our system has served the country well and would be reluctant to change.
Best wishes, George Young
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Sir George Young Bt MP: Constituency and Parliamentary Website 