Brown’s pledge for reform
‘Prime Minister Gordon Brown has set out wide-ranging proposals to
“clean up” and modernise British politics in an effort to reassert his
authority.’ – BBC
‘And although it will not be possible to make changes to the second chamber before an election, it will be seen as opportunity to wrong-foot the Tories on the issue of just how committed they are to reform.’ – Jo Coburn, BBC
‘Some people had hoped that Mr Brown might lead on electoral reform yesterday, and he may have disappointed them. At prime minister’s questions he said he disliked proportional representation, a view shared by many Labour and all Tory MPs – but he sounded lukewarm even about the alternative vote, which isn’t proportional, can exaggerate majorities, but might still be better than first past the post. No one likes discussion more than constitutional enthusiasts. But if democracy is to be improved, and public trust rebuilt, reform has to begin. Unfortunately, we are still waiting.’ – Editorial, The Guardian
‘If politicians are really going to reconnect with the public and cleanse the system – and there is always the argument that, given time, politics will return to normal as if nothing had happened – they are going to have at least to look as if they are starting afresh. It’s no good talking of parliamentary reform. The only change which will matter is real, hard practical change.’ – Adrian Hamilton, The Independent
Green shoots?
‘The pound hit a 2009 high against the euro on Thursday after a poll showing rising inflation expectations and data pointing to economic growth in April and May bolstered the view that the economy may be recovering.’ – Reuters
‘The number of loans handed out for house purchases in the UK rose by 16% in April compared with the previous month, according to lenders.’ – BBC
European cooperation
‘European Union countries should cooperate more closely to rebuild their economies in the wake of the global financial crisis and not pursue national solutions, British Business Secretary Peter Mandelson said on Thursday.’ – Reuters
Speaker race heats up
‘Veteran Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe has announced she is to stand as Speaker of the House of Commons.’ – BBC
‘Whoever wins the Speakership must contemplate the prospect of being the first Speaker to face a fight for re-election less than a year after being dragged – so very willingly – to the chair. And, of course, being ejected from it.’ – Benedict Brogan, Daily Telegraph