Restoring trust in MPs

 

In the original version of my book Common's Knowledge in 1997, I listed ten commandments. They are even more vital now. Trust must be restored. I intend to use the same ten commandments in the new version of the book that will be published in February, unless better ideas are suggested.

In addition there will be fresh advice in the new book on how MPs should behave after the expenses scandal. I would be grateful for comments and suggestions.

 

 

The Backbencher’s Ten Commandments

 

Value the role of backbencher as a high calling 

Serve constituents, the weak and the neglected 

Seek novel remedies and challenge accepted wisdom 

Attack opponents only when they are wrong 

Never covet a second income, honours or retirement job 

Value courage and innovation above popularity 

Honour your party and extend its horizons 

Use humour and colour to convey serious ideas.

Fortify the independence of backbenchers against the executive 

Neglect the rich, the obsessed, the tabloids and seek out the silent voices  

 

How to restore trust

 

* Understate promises and never exaggerate successes.

* Reply with 24 hours to all messages.

* Be transparent and puritanical with allowances and expenses.

* Avoid serving commercial or partial interests.

* Generously give time and enthusiasm to local causes.

* Never accept personal favours or advantages. 

* Always pay for meals or souvenir gifts.

* Put all excess income above salary in a charity trust fund.

* Never lie, tell half-truths or mis-lead.

* Keep constituents informed on key issues.

* Deflect criticism with truth and humour.

* Admit failures.

* Decline complaints that are beyond responsibility or competence.

* Match behaviour to idealised self-image.

* Resist immediate gratification, seek permanent reforms. 

* Strive to give unambiguous answers to questions.

* Choose simplicity and utility over luxury and extravagance.

 

Comments

[Nic Prigg]

I think this is a good idea. I would add a parliamentary honour code that MPs have to sign every time they claim for expenses.

The problem with a lot of the suggested reforms to try and establish trust is that its very easy to be tempted by immediate gratification - its what all of us our programmed to do. Its why so many our obese, why so many of us smoke and why so many of us drink, we're seeking immediate gratification.

We can try to punish those who seek immediate gratification through opinion polls or something. The problem with the riots, Cameron sought gratification but he did it in a way that resonated with us. A heck of a lot of people wanted revenge/justice so Cameron's talk of "full force of the law" spoke to us when he was seeking gratification.

[Paul Flynn]

Thanks very much Nic. Are you suggesting that I add a new point about gratification? I am sure your point is right. There are 17 point on the present list. It might be improved up to 20. I'll give it some thought.

[Mike Alcock]

My mum is a Grade F NHS nurse. She has been in the nursing profession for 30 years. I am a software engineer, and have been for 7 years. Already, I earn more than my mum does.

It seems wrong that someone who saves lives for a living earns less than someone who writes programs for the holiday industry. I do not see this as a fair situation, and it irks me slightly on moral grounds.

My point here, really, is to say that politicians play an important role in the future of the country and, by extension, the entire population. Yet I would say that they get a modest salary relative to what they do and the impact they make. While I do not condone what happened in the expenses scandal, to name one of many incidents throughout history, I am not surprised that politicians will attempt to raise money outside their "day job". And neither can I blame them for it, as far as it does not clash with the public interest. I believe that the two are not necessarily mutually exclusive.

This is not intended as a 'flame' post, rather an attempt to provide an alternative view on the argument. I also agree with and applaud your Commandments, insofar as they do not conflict with the points that I have made above.

If only more politicians were like that, there would be a lot more faith in politics - although, of course, that's precisely your point. Thanks, and keep up the good work!

[Paul Flynn]

Thanks Mike for your interesting reply. There are always contradictions and problems in pay rates.

I have just finished writing the book and I will now send it to the publishers. It is based on the vast changes that have taken place in parliament since the first edition of the book in 1997. The book will be published in February. Get in touch then, I'll send you details of a Newport launch.

I have never found the need to use for myself my earnings above my salary.

[Mike Alcock]

Thanks, I look forward to it. And of course, there is truth in the idea that costs rise to fit the income available.