The commentators 20-08-14...on British politics
Where you come from certainly does matter. The problem with too many members of our political class today is that they don’t. And that means politics is rooted in think-tanks, lobbyists and focus groups and not in the lived experience of the people it’s actually meant to be about
- Dreda Say Mitchell, The Guardian 
If the battle for Scotland is nearly over, the battle for England might be about to begin. Today’s Future of England survey finds that most English voters want the UK to survive, but they want the terms of the relationship to change. Most think Scottish MPs should be prevented from voting on laws that apply only in England and also want Scotland to lose its budget subsidy
- Tim Montgomerie, The Times 
One way or another, after independence, Scottish viewers would have to pay to receive BBC services. Those who will vote for independence identify and expect many gains. But many of the advantages that the most creative and inspiring talents in Scotland have enjoyed for 300 years – of making a massive impact on a big stage to global acclaim – will be lost
- John Birt, The Guardian 
The British parliament is the envy of the world, a model for lawmaking. So as the public lose trust in politicians, the reputation of parliament itself is crucial. That is why the row over the appointment of a new clerk to the House of Commons, at a salary of £200,000 a year, is not just a silly season Westminster spat. The prime minister should intervene.
- Jill Kirby, The Times
Until John Bercow became speaker the Commons was in danger of becoming irrelevant. Big stories would erupt and MPs would not be able to debate them. Bercow has made parliament more central by granting so-called urgent questions on a regular basis, enabling MPs to question ministers at short notice.
- Steve Richards, The Guardian
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August 8
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