Plaid MPs: Brown needs democratic vote on electoral reform

Plaid Cymru MPs have commented on the announcement that Gordon Brown is this today set to announce proposals for House of Commons electoral reform.

The Prime Minister will make a statement prior to Plaid Cymru and SNP debate calling for the dissolution of Parliament.

Plaid Cymru Westminster Leader Elfyn Llwyd MP said:

“I was very encouraged by Mr Brown’s initial speeches about these matters when he was first in post as Prime Minister but disappointed by the stalling of implementing these changes. I hope that there will be now be a greater impetus to get things moving.

“It is very fitting that Gordon Brown should time his announcement before the Plaid and SNP motion – one that if successful would lead to an immediate General Election.

“Plaid recently called for a ‘democracy day’ to address a wide range of matters. Together with our debate today, and with the Prime Minister’s announcements, we could have a true, meaningful and informed debate – which could then lead to a ‘democracy day’ referendum.

“Such a referendum could be held on the day of the next General Election, and would give the public a say on important democratic issues, such as: the composition of the House of Lords, the present voting system, curtailing the power of the Whips, whether they are satisfied with Royal prerogative, calling for a fixed term parliament, to name a few.

“Such reforms need to be implemented through an inclusive decision-making process and open to wider discussion.

“Even if we lose the vote tonight, we will have sparked a debate about the wider constitutional issues. Real electoral and expenses reform at Westminster is long overdue, but by addressing these measures we can begin to rebuild the public’s trust.”