Give evidence
Thank you to all who have given evidence over the last 12 months - through the online questionnaire, written submissions, witness sessions and Democracy Dinners.
The Inquiry report Power to the People - which you have all helped shape - was published on 27 February 2006.
The questions below informed some of the areas that POWER investigated and respondents answered those questions they felt strongly about.
The questions were designed to help focus thinking, but we also welcomed all submissions on the topics of engagement and participation in democracy.
Download questions and background information >
Fact Sheet
More detailed briefing
Download a copy of the questions (as below)
1. Political parties have been absolutely central to British politics for many decades. But in recent years the number of people joining parties or saying they identify with one or other of the main parties has declined sharply. So how can political party membership and allegiance be made more attractive? And are there more effective ways of involving people in politics than through parties?
2. Some people argue that the government at Westminster is too powerful. They have called for more responsibility to be given to local councils and devolved institutions. Other people claim that the influence of unelected bodies such as major companies, international organisations and appointed authorities is too great and needs to be balanced by greater powers for our elected representatives. But would these changes really encourage more people to get involved in politics? Would they help people feel more confident about the possibility of influencing political decisions?
3. Some people claim the media breeds cynicism about politics and politicians which discourages political interest and involvement. Is this true? If so, how can the media play a positive role in encouraging political involvement?
4. The number of people voting in General Elections has declined considerably in the last ten years. Turnout is also very low in elections for local councils, devolved institutions and the European Parliament. What changes would encourage a larger number of people to feel it is worth voting?
5. Some people argue that voting in elections is not enough. They believe today’s citizens need an opportunity to discuss and have a direct say over individual policies through other means such as referenda, internet forums and public meetings designed to have significant power to influence political decisions. Would more opportunities to do this attract participants and would they encourage greater trust in the policies pursued by politicians?
6. Some groups in society are very unlikely to be involved in politics. Young people are far less likely to vote or join parties than older people. The poorest sections of our society and black and minority ethnic communities are less likely to vote, join parties or take part in any sort of political activity. What action would encourage greater political involvement by the groups that are least involved with politics?
7. Is there anything further about participation and engagement in democracy you would like to add?
