Fixed Term Crucial To Con/lib Dem Agreement

May 8, 2010 - PRLog -- Some commentators even seem to assume it’s absence, when in fact it is likely to be (and should be) an essential element.


  

Everyone knows that for two to three years we face a series of unpopular measures to correct our structural fiscal deficit in ways which command confidence for those ready to buy government gilts. There will be no bigger or more immediate test for the new government. This makes the case is overwhelming for a fixed term for any Con/LD arrangement.


Whatever the measures decided on, a coalition government speaking with the authority of more than 50 per cent of the electorate and pledged to govern for four years would be more likely to carry conviction with the markets - and, no small matter, with the electors who will be at the receiving end.

Four years would be the ideal time frame, allowing some time, at the end of the period before this parliament’s five year term is up, for some loosening of the coalition ties  before an election if that were deemed desirable.


A four year fixed term would allow proper priority to be given to the economy and other pressing matters. Meanwhile the UK Boundary Commissions can be asked to redraw constituency boundaries to allow for the reduction in the number of constituencies which both the Tories and the Lib Dems agree on. But to do this in such a way that, if discussions on electoral reform (and a consequent referendum) were subsequently to lead to a change in the electoral system the new constituencies could easily be grouped for the purposes of STV.

The parties could then turn their minds to electoral and political reform when we are in clearer economic waters.





Vicky Kenrick - Press Officer Charter 2010
press@charter2010.co.uk


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