Reform of Parliament - what happens next? - March 31, 2010
The vital task facing the new Parliament and new MPs
A Hansard Society pamphlet, The Reform Challenge, published today, brings together perspectives and proposals on the urgent task facing the new Parliament - how to renew our democratic system and regain public confidence and trust.
In a series of Hansard Society lectures addressing the issue of parliamentary reform, representatives from the three main political parties (Rt Hon Jack Straw MP, Rt Hon Sir George Young MP and David Howarth MP), the Speaker of the House of Commons, Rt Hon John Bercow MP and the Lord Speaker, Baroness Hayman, put forward their proposals. The Reform Challenge brings together their thoughts to provide a comprehensive over-view of the challenges facing the next Parliament and their priorities for reform.
In addition, Dr Ruth Fox, Director of the Hansard Society's Parliament and Government programme, examines public confidence in and satisfaction with the effectiveness of Parliament collectively and MPs individually. She puts forward 15 priority areas for reform covering the legislative and scrutiny process and public engagement with the parliamentary process.
Dr Fox commented: ‘Public expectations are high that the new intake of MPs will make a difference to the culture and conduct of Westminster politics. They will be under pressure to restore standards of public service and enhance the reputation and relevance of Parliament. It is crucial that all members of the new Parliament - individually and collectively - are focused on parliamentary reforms that will genuinely improve the public's faith in Parliament and restore its relevance to people's lives.'
For further information, contact Virginia Gibbons at the Hansard Society on 020 7438 1225 or 07812 765 552
Editor's Notes
- The Hansard Society is the UK's leading independent, non-partisan political research and education charity. We aim to strengthen parliamentary democracy and encourage greater public involvement in politics. For more information about other Hansard Society publications visit the website at http://www.hansardsociety.org.uk/