How a green politics will be different

Our system of government is in crisis. It has lost the confidence of most people, many of whom no longer vote. Spin and sleaze dominate national politics.

Decisions are taken in secret and far away from the communities most affected. Archaic elements like the Monarchy and House of Lords remain.

We have an unfair electoral system and almost alone in the world we have no written constitution. Power and influence have been taken from cash-starved local councils. It is hardly surprising that this system cannot face up to the long term decisions needed to create a sustainable and just society. (cont)

The Green Party wants to fundamentally change the way this system works - to modernise and decentralise it, and make it fairer, more open, and more accountable. Decisions must be taken at the most appropriate level to ensure proper accountability to those people affected by them. This means more local and regional decision-making and greater public participation at all levels.

All elections should be fair, and direct democracy should be enhanced through such means as holding referenda.

It is Green party policy that:

* A new written constitution should be devized, defining the rights and responsibilities of citizens.

* Elected Regional Assemblies should be introduced in England.

* New Parish and Community Councils should be set up.

* The House of Lords should be replaced by a wholly elected second chamber.

* Elections should be by a system of proportional representation.

* The constitutional functions of the monarchy should be abolished.

* The Church of England should be disestablished, placing all denominations and religions on the same footing.

* The voting age should be reduced to 16 years.

* A 'recall' system needs introducing - where politicians must step down to face re-election if petitioned to do so by a significant proportion of electors.

GPEW