Rebuilding Britain’s Democracy
For years, Britain’s political system has crumbled under the pressure of its failing democracy. But Gordon Brown’s proposals to shake up Westminster institutions could point a way forward.
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Mick Antoniw is Labour MS for Pontypridd. He is Counsel General and Minister for the Constitution.
For years, Britain’s political system has crumbled under the pressure of its failing democracy. But Gordon Brown’s proposals to shake up Westminster institutions could point a way forward.
Welsh Labour’s governing agreement with Plaid Cymru includes plans to expand free school meals, work toward a National Care Service and fight the housing crisis – proof that there is an alternative to Tory misrule.
While Labour mourns its English losses, the Welsh party won a historic victory by articulating a clear vision – one that centred local issues, put people ahead of profit, and proved that socialist values can resonate.
By refusing financial support for devolved nations and regional mayors – and acting only when Southern England needed help – Boris Johnson has turbo-charged Britain’s process of disintegration.
The Labour government in Wales is trying to respond progressively to the Covid-19 economic fallout – but its efforts are hindered by Westminster’s failings. It needs the UK Labour Party to lead a stronger fightback.
Labour should respond to the general election defeat by looking back not a month or a year, but over the past two decades – to what it did in government, in opposition and in response to Britain’s emerging constitutional crises.
In 2017, Labour’s election comeback started in Wales. This week there are signs that a similar poll surge is happening in 2019 – and the Tories are worried.
In Wales, fighting this election on Brexit alone would be a historic missed opportunity. Now is the time to make the case for radical economic policies and real climate action.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of devolution to Wales. There have been progressive achievements but, as the UK’s constitutional crisis deepens, the process still has some way to go.