Tag: Vittorio Trevitt
The emergence of a genuine system of multiparty politics in the United Kingdom is a positive development for British democracy
In 1955 more than 90% of voters opted to back either Labour or the Conservatives. In 2015, this figure could drop to its lowest ever, even lower than 2010 when only 65% backed the established parties. Many factors lie behind this trend, but it represents a positive development, argues Vittorio Trevitt. An intriguing development that […]
A written British constitution would do much to enhance Britain’s democracy and the wellbeing of its citizens
Britain famously has no written constitution, opting instead to govern itself with reference to a set of conventions, laws, and traditions without formal codification. Vittorio Trevitt argues that this system has past its sell-by date, and should be replaced by a written constitution. Similar PostsFive minutes with Graham Allen: “unlike most democracies, the UK lacks […]
The UK would reap the benefits if it were to adopt the Swiss model of direct democracy
Switzerland has long had a model of direct democracy which has allowed citizens direct influence over Government legislation, should the requisite threshold be passed on a public petition. Vittorio Trevitt argues that their system has much to commend it, and that Westminster politicians ought to seriously consider adopting it in the UK. Similar PostsThe case of […]
There is a strong case for the introduction of an elected tier of English regional government
Should there be an English Parliament? Or should the English regions – closer in size to the other constituent parts of the United Kingdom – instead enjoy self-government over elements of government economic and social policy? Vittorio Trevitt argues that such a development would be good for democracy and good for England. Similar PostsWho’s going […]
Compulsory voting is controversial, but would represent a move towards genuine democratic empowerment
Britain has been blighted by steadily declining turnout over a number of election cycles, with a competitive 2010 election being unusual in seeing turnout actually increase. Vittorio Trevitt argues that compulsory voting would increase engagement and actually empower voters, with criticisms of the notion generally missing the mark. Similar PostsAustralian politics shows why the de-separation of political […]
Extending the franchise to 16 and 17 year olds would deepen and strengthen British democracy
Reducing the age of enfranchisement from 18 to 16 would not just ensure that young people’s views were listened to, it would also take advantage of the growing political awareness of this age group, as evidenced by the Scottish Independence referendum campaign, evidence from overseas, and some research from the UK, according to Vittorio Trevitt. Similar PostsThe […]
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