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In Search of Choice - by James Evans
James Evans explores the need for choice and the importance it plays in political campaigning
Cynics, who think that MPs’ hefty salary packages and the rarified atmosphere of Westminster are proof that politicians don’t live in the real world, probably haven’t experienced the highs and lows of grassroots campaigning. Going out canvassing and leaflet-delivering in all weathers is not for the faint-hearted; but it is important for UK democracy that people make that choice. A complete lack of communication cuts politicians off from constituents in precisely the way cynics expect, fulfilling the prophecy of their undemocratic relationship. My dissatisfaction with the complacency of the local politicians of my youth who never canvassed or delivered to us once in the years of my childhood reached an apogee when the former constituency MP resigned after being discovered to have claimed fraudulent expenses from the public purse. Fraud in itself would not have precluded the MP from doing a good job for his constituents, of course. But a lack of communication makes it very difficult for MPs, local councillors, and activists alike to respond to needs ranging from educational services to pavement maintenance. Two thousand pairs of eyes are better than one. Even in these local instances, not everyone wants to know. Doorstep campaigners have barking dogs and lethal letterboxes to contend with, as well as adverse weather conditions, and sometimes even hostile natives who regard them as junk mailers or weirdoes. They should not be discouraged, because their work is vital to democracy. Without the information that local activists provide and the opportunity they represent for political parties and neighbours alike, political discourse is restricted to closeted, formal forums; recent low electoral turnout suggests that 40% of our population despise them. Without local campaigners’ work, people’s right to choice is undermined: activists’ ranks provide most of the candidates for local political bodies; and choice depends upon information. If people have no information about a candidate, exercising their right to vote for them can mean no more than choosing one colour of party over another. Good information gives local people ownership of their vote, the power of positive choice. |
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