From Martin Pitman.
THE outcome of the recent States debate on population policy had a predictable result although for me the most depressing aspect of the States decision to permit further immigration is the worsening of the already chronic traffic congestion we all suffer. Many States Members seem blissfully oblivious to this.
The outcome of the population debate is typical of so many decisions by an Assembly that since the advent of ministerial government has become increasingly polarised.
Two hundred years ago Napoleon Bonaparte, speaking on the subject of democracy said. ‘All is done for the people and in the name of the people, nothing by the people’. This statement sums up pretty well the attitude of many established politicians, with all that it implies about them knowing best.
The latest set of proposals for the reform of the States have a great deal to recommend them and probably reflect what the people would like to see happen.
A reduction in the number of States Members; one general election day for all and a fairer distribution ratio of States Members per head of population all make perfect sense. This alone will probably condemn them to be dismissed out of hand.
While I would be delighted to be proved wrong when the matter is debated in the autumn, I remain convinced that the existing system suits too many of our established political figures. The low numbers turning out at elections allows a considerable number of States Members to keep their seats, making it highly unlikely they will vote for much-needed reform.
If more people were inclined to vote the States Assembly would probably look very different and reach decisions that reflect what the people would like to see, a terrifying prospect for some.
