MPs suggest National Commission on Electoral Reform

In our increasingly fragmented and volatile political environment, the case for electoral reform becomes clearer every day. And as the political landscape changes, so too will the route to our objective of a fairly elected parliament. So how should the government take the next step in addressing the distortions of our political system?

MPs in the All Party Parliamentary Group on Fair Elections have set out one approach this week: a National Commission on Electoral Reform.

I was pleased to provide advice and feedback on the proposals before they were published, which tackle some of the important questions about how to create a process that builds consensus and inspires public trust, and crucially, builds the pressure for change.

The National Commission on Electoral Reform

The group have launched a report setting out the terms of reference for how an independent National Commission could build consensus on a new voting system for Westminster through broad consultation, deliberation and evidence gathering.

While very much a technical document, you can read the terms of reference on the All Party Group’s website.

The Commission is a proposal for a time-limited independent review, informed by the evidence of experts and the values of the voting public.

As history has taught us, it is crucial that the National Commission process is just the beginning, and that it builds support and pressure for change. It is important, too, to bring people with you – with public trust at record lows, there is a strong case for an independent process that inspires confidence in its outcomes.

This report sets out a way to bring both expertise and the voters’ perspectives to the issue of the electoral system for Westminster and to begin to create a consensus on moving forward.

As we move fully into a multi-party world, and First Past the Post throws out even more warped results, the realisation that First Past the Post isn’t fit for purpose will grow. Ideas like the National Commission give us another way to win the case for fair elections.