9: DECENTRALISATION OF GOVERNMENT:
Transferring much administration from central government to the cities, counties and traditional regions of England giving local people more say in their affairs and greater accountability in public spending. Reinvigorate local government with tax-raising powers devolved from Inland Revenue. The use of direct democracy and referenda in decision making.
Our opinion is that Westminster should be for dealing with foreign issues, national laws and issues national importance, whilst other affairs should be dealt with at a more local level. Our large cities, our counties and even our traditional regions such as Mercia, East Anglia and Wessex could all have increased powers to decide local issues. This could come through forms of Provincial Government, similar to the successful Lander System which operates in Germany. The number of M.P’s at Westminster could therefore be reduced. We also support direct democracy and would introduce referenda into the decision making process. For too long power has rested in the hands of a few overpaid officials who very often rip off the people of this country. We would bring an end to what has really been an abuse of power.
