Don't Get Mad - Get Even

How should we respond to the failure of Parliament to act in the best interests of our country and the people who live within the boundaries of the United Kingdom? Walking away is not a real option. Thankfully we still live in a democracy. Our representatives are accountable to the citizens they were elected to serve.

Some will be tempted to retreat from engagement. But that would leave the authors of our troubles to escape the consequences. Instead we need to step up and carry out the duties of good citizens. We need to hold the decisions made in our names up to scrutiny.

Keep asking questions. Challenge the assertions and actions of your elected representatives. If you are not happy with the way your MP or councillor voted or spoke - then say so. Demand answers. Challenge them through the columns of your local newspapers, on the phone-ins of your local radio stations, on the doorsteps when the canvassers come round, at the local party offices. Keep writing & emailing. If they are unresponsive consider standing as a candidate yourself. Join a political party.

The minority maintain power because they know that few will challenge them. Political strategists calculate that the anger of most people will subside. They rely on people tiring of challenging them. It is when citizens arm themselves with a knowledge of how Parliament, Government & councils works; when they become vocal within their community; when they insist on demanding answers that this minority becomes threatened. Chanting at a demonstration with fellow minded friends can be fun - but what Representatives and their party organisations fear most is people watching their local council or Parliament - and asking pertinent questions. Dealing with someone who has reflected on the issues - and asks calmly why a decision has been made is much more difficult than facing organised protests.

Many of us have looked at the shallowness (and sometimes, unpleasantness) of particular representatives. We've been angered by their dismissive responses to our emails and letters and phone-calls. If you've ever thought to yourself, "I could do a better job than them" - then perhaps it's time to do something about it.

I'd value your thoughts on what I have suggested.