UK Politics is more than just the ups and downs of national governments. It’s also about who governs what, when and why. Westminster is where the upper houses of the British parliament sit. Every year the leaders of the country meet in the Houses of Parliament for the most part to discuss the happenings of the country and the global affairs which face it. Leaders of the various parties to make statements and set agendas that help guide the country through its many challenges.
The United Kingdom, made up primarily of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, has always been a stable country. England alone accounts for nearly half of the population of the world. England’s ever-changing landscape is what makes the political arena so interesting. London, home to the world’s financial capital and the headquarters of some of the world’s top corporations, is also home to an influential center of politics and commerce.
The UK’s two main political parties, the Liberal Democrats and the Labour Party, have formed an uneasy partnership since they were formed in 1997. Led by prime minister David Cameron, the party has ruled out any involvement with the creation of another party, which would split the governing party in half. Instead, the LDP proposes plans for a “fairer Britain.” They also want to take control of tax hikes from incomes above a certain level and work towards creating a Britain without a European Union at all.
A key component of the Labour Party’s platform is an overhaul of the House of Commons, currently under the leadership of Speaker of the House of Commons John Smith. The UK Parliament is generally seen as an honest and fair system of government. However, some see it as too cozy for the average citizen, especially when elected officials are not actually accountable to the people. A lack of direct democracy and an inability to change the existing laws has led to criticism of politicians in the UK.
One notable voice for change is shadow cabinet member and former cabinet minister Peter Mandelson. He argues that political power should be “reversed” and argues for “a massive shake up of British politics.” He says that major changes are needed because many politicians are unable or unwilling to make difficult decisions. He calls for a “listening conference” where every member of parliament would have to stand up and be heard.
The LDP is popular among some in the United Kingdom. However, recent opinion surveys show that a majority of the population now favors a return to direct democracy. Parties in the UK are generally seen as corrupt and are rarely able to deliver on their promises. David Cameron has come under fire for his excessive expenses while he was premier. Critics say that his lack of accountability has allowed his party to deviate from the goals it set out to achieve. An audit into political spending is expected to be launched in the near future and could reveal details that have so far remained hidden.