The current Elections Bill before Parliament contains a range of measures which require careful consideration. Among the most concerning are steps which appear designed to limit the independence of the Electoral Commission. Among these are … [Read more...] about Elections Bill: a modest proposal to improve the Speaker’s Committee on the Electoral Commission
Five years ago today, the UK voted to leave the European Union. This was a significant political upset; Brexit had been officially opposed by the major parties in parliament, the Prime Minister, and a clear majority of scientific and economic … [Read more...] about Something is rotten in the state of Britain: beliefs about the fairness of elections in freefall
In the wake of last month’s elections, questions began to be asked about the prospect of an opposition electoral alliance. The Labour Party lost a number of councils and the Hartlepool by-election, suggesting it faces immense challenges in seeking to … [Read more...] about Electoral pacts and the constitution: could a pact be successful?
For better public policy, Parliament should assert itself and take control of its own business (see How Parliament would take control). But what kind of Parliament? An influential idea in political thinking is that governments need to be strong in … [Read more...] about The English delusion
Which activities are essential during a pandemic? Across England, school buildings have been closed, as have many shops, businesses and sports facilities. So what about elections? Should they go ahead? It’s an important question since local elections … [Read more...] about UK government has delayed elections longer than most countries – and England still isn’t ready to hold pandemic votes in May
