Power to the people right on

Published on 26 May 2009 at 14:18

In the first of four papers in today's Guardian, Britain’s Conservative Party leader David Cameron sets out his vision for more transparent government in an attempt to attract voters disgusted by the row over MPs' expenses, a subject which has dominated the front pages of the British press this last fortnight.

“In media, shopping, travel, entertainment and music, we have huge choice and control,” he argues. In a bid to emulate the providers of such services that “offer us incredible service and value”, the Tory leader argues for “a massive, sweeping, radical redistribution of power.” “We must take power away from the political elite and hand it to the man and woman in the street."

This will include new restrictions on the powers of Prime Minister, notably the royal prerogative to make major decisions in the name of the monarch, and the timing of general elections. He also wishes to strengthen the hand of local government, observing that “thousands of new homes” are dumped via regional government “without a thought about…the character of your community.”

Receive the best of European journalism straight to your inbox every Thursday
Tags

Was this article useful? If so we are delighted!

It is freely available because we believe that the right to free and independent information is essential for democracy. But this right is not guaranteed forever, and independence comes at a cost. We need your support in order to continue publishing independent, multilingual news for all Europeans.

Discover our subscription offers and their exclusive benefits and become a member of our community now!

Are you a news organisation, a business, an association or a foundation? Check out our bespoke editorial and translation services.

Support independent European journalism

European democracy needs independent media. Join our community!

On the same topic