Michael Macpherson (London, I&R ~ GB): In his speech presenting his Green Paper on his reforms to parliament, the Prime Minister said,
"While our system of representative democracy - local as well as national - is at the heart of our constitution, it can be enhanced by devolving more power directly to the people and I propose we start the debate and consult on empowering citizens and communities in four areas. First, powers of initiative, extending the right of the British people to intervene with their elected local representatives to ensure action..."
At I&R we have responded to this and three other proposals. "Powers of initiative" sounds impressive but does he mean the right of citizens to propose laws? Or does he mean only a glorified petition? He could mean that if a large number of voters endorse a proposal then a local council must debate and decide on them. Does he? What does a "right to call for action" imply? Under freedom of speech we already have the right to call for any reasonable course of (political) action -- currently no-one is obliged to listen. Does Brown mean that a citizens' proposal could oblige a council to hold a binding referendum? That would be good democracy.
Sadly, given that most power is held by central government, Brown limits his offer of "devolved power" to "local" government. Why? The people of Italy, Slovakia and Switzerland have the right to make or change and veto law by citizens-initiative-referendum at the State level, and local levels too. Are we people of the British isles less intelligent or less politically responsible than our neighbours?
