Re: [A-List] PR in Scottish local elections

[Douglas Chalmers <dch@xxxxxxxxxx>]

On 15/5/03 7:41 am, "Chris Burford" <cburford@xxxxxxxxxx> wrote:

The proposal of the Scottish Exec to accept PR for Scottish local elections
is the culmination of many decades of struggle for a fairer voting system in
the UK. Originally championed by the LibDems, PR in the form of STV was also
put forward by the marxist left in Scotland from as early as 1943 when the
Communist MP Willie Gallacher argued for this reform in the House of
Commons.

It should not be seen in isolation however. The whole premise of
democratisation of Scottish politics which is the basis of the establishment
of Scotland's Parliament, was not solely to increase the representation of
the 'left' in whatever form it might exist at any time. It was primarily to
transform the actual nature of the political system by a move away from
bi-polar, presidential style politics to one where political decisions
needed consultation and co-operation with non ruling parties and also with
extra parliamentary forces like the green movement, womens groups and all
types of non party political organisations, which could now exert some real
influence on the politics due to the accessibility of the Parliament's new
structures.

The Parliament is still in its infancy, only 4 years down the road, but PR
so far may be the biggest single achievement it has so far agreed on, with
the potential to have the longest lasting results.

Douglas Chalmers




> A strengthened platform for the Scottish Socialist Party as a result of the
> recent elections was progressive.
>
> The deal between the Labour Party and the Liberal Democrats last night to
> extend proportional representation to local council elections from 2007
> sounds as if may give further opportunities for the radical left.
>
> The disadvantage of this sort of PR is said to be the platform for racist
> candidates, but I prefer the view that they are best dealt with by
> political campaigning, including street demonstrations. PR is very far from
> a socialist revolution, but depending on the method, it can allow a greater
> opportunity for more radical socialist views to be proclaimed and to
> influence the balance of forces in assemblies by splitting the left of
> centre vote.
>
> Broadly it is looking hopeful that Scotland could continue to move in a
> more radical direction than England.
>
> I hope and trust Michael has more detailed information from the Scottish
> press.
>
> Chris Burford
>
>