Originally posted @ 11:00 pm, Sun 31st May 2009
The allowances scheme for MPs has been inexplicable – people cannot relate to how it works (why reward people for spending more money?); it's not like any scheme they've come across at work.
I am pleased that any future allowances and expenses claimed will be fully published and this should deal with any future applications of poor motive.
I believe any future scheme should draw upon the way workers get expenses in general.
There should be a new code of conduct, and this should draw upon existing codes of conduct (including Nolan’s 7 principles).
I have found that members of the public regard the position of Member of Parliament (and even of Prospective Parliamentary Candidate); they are aware of the help an MP can offer to the community and for themselves and they want the opportunity of such help (witness the significant caseload that is dealt with); they want their MP to be an advocate to express values and opinions.
MPs’ reputations would be enhanced if they were seen to be advocating policies and values rather than asking deferential questions; (“Exchanges with the Minister” rather than “Questions to the Minister”).
Public debate has moved towards reform of our democracy; what is bizarre is that many of the ideas for instant reform are far from instant – fewer MPs (vs. the legal processes for defining new constituencies); PR (vs. huge legislative change with no electoral mandate); - or barking (Cabinet Ministers not to be MPs).
I think the way business is transacted in the Commons and the manner in which MPs are seen to be sidelined (scrutinising Gov’t rather than being a part of it) requires a reform that brings the MPs who support the Government into the process of Gov’t; that such a change should see MPs agreeing actions; and that such a change offers greater opportunities for MPs to show they make a difference; too many of our MPs’ talents and experiences are wasted.
We are missing a commonly understood code for what would make good government, and this should be profoundly political (in Labour's case, our values of - fairer outcomes, achieving together, help those who need most help, the environment;) and as well as testing against the required elements of good management (ambition; planning, performance management; capacity, credibility, culture; legitimacy).
it's important that those who've broken rules or exercised poor judgement are held to account. It's frustrating that due process will take the time it does.
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