Campaigners Call for Political Reforms to Avoid 'Trumpian' Crisis in UK
Unlock Democracy Advocates for Strengthening Public Trust in UK Politics
The campaign group Unlock Democracy has warned that the next UK general election could face a crisis akin to that of Donald Trump's in the US if crucial measures to restore public trust in the political system are not implemented.
The group, along with former ministers, has outlined 54 proposals in a recent paper, including a cap on political donations and expanded authority for the House of Lords Appointments Commission to veto unsuitable peer nominations.
Despite recent improvements by Labour leader Keir Starmer to the ministerial code, such as stricter rules on gifts, campaigners note persistent issues with transparency and accountability.
The paper argues that the UK's reliance on unwritten conventions is a democratic vulnerability.
Key recommendations include requiring MP select committees to confirm cabinet ministers, parliamentary ratification of new prime ministers, and measures to address campaign finance and political donation transparency.
Specific proposals include a £200 cap on items received by MPs, limits on earnings from secondary employment, and amendments to parliamentary codes of conduct.
Tom Brake, director of Unlock Democracy, alongside supporters like Dominic Grieve and Paul Tyler, highlights the urgency of addressing these issues to prevent a significant electoral crisis.
Caroline Slocock, director of Civil Exchange, emphasizes the need for action to restore trust in the integrity of the democratic system.
The group, along with former ministers, has outlined 54 proposals in a recent paper, including a cap on political donations and expanded authority for the House of Lords Appointments Commission to veto unsuitable peer nominations.
Despite recent improvements by Labour leader Keir Starmer to the ministerial code, such as stricter rules on gifts, campaigners note persistent issues with transparency and accountability.
The paper argues that the UK's reliance on unwritten conventions is a democratic vulnerability.
Key recommendations include requiring MP select committees to confirm cabinet ministers, parliamentary ratification of new prime ministers, and measures to address campaign finance and political donation transparency.
Specific proposals include a £200 cap on items received by MPs, limits on earnings from secondary employment, and amendments to parliamentary codes of conduct.
Tom Brake, director of Unlock Democracy, alongside supporters like Dominic Grieve and Paul Tyler, highlights the urgency of addressing these issues to prevent a significant electoral crisis.
Caroline Slocock, director of Civil Exchange, emphasizes the need for action to restore trust in the integrity of the democratic system.
