Kingston MP puts the case for local democracy

30.11.04

Edward Davey, Liberal Democrat MP for Kingston and Surbiton, today called for the re-birth of local democracy at a discussion organised by the Centre for Reform. The event, held at the National Liberal Club in Whitehall on the 30th November, aimed to take forward the debate on the key elements of Liberalism in the 21st century that had formed the basis of the recently published Orange Book.

Local MP Edward Davey was asked to make the case for devolving power, and how this would lead to an increase in local democracy, local accountability, and local innovation. As a key contributor on this subject to the Orange Book - a collection of essays by leading Liberal Democrat MPs, and prospective MPs on the application of liberal principles to modern policy- Edward Davey set out a strong case for the re-invigoration of local government.

Talking after the event, dedicated constituency MP Edward Davey said:

'Local democracy and accountability is fundamental to restoring confidence in the people and processes involved in politics. It is important that we engage the public in this debate, and show them that there is an alternative to overbearing, domineering, and seemingly unaccountable centralised government.

'Devolving power to create stronger local government would help to raise standards in public services and undoubtedly strengthen the democratic system. Many people feel marginalised and disengaged with politics, and much of this is due to the top-heavy nature of our current system.

'It is the Liberal Democrats who are stimulating and generating fresh ideas for governance in the 21st century, and it is important to continue debating and discussing these issues and this event has provided a great forum for doing so.

'This Government's 'nanny-state' approach to governance has contributed to the crisis of confidence in our current political system to realise and meet the challenges of 21st century government. We need a new localism, with strong local government with genuine powers who are wholly and really accountable to local people.'