Practical questions about reform

I am not entirely sure that the Tory backbench revolt is aware that there are two sides to every bargain. If they decide to pursue paths to scupper reform and vote against the holding of a referendum on voting reform (AV at least) then it will also hold that backbench Lib Dems are well placed to walk away from the proposal to reduce the number of constituencies by 50 and equalize the number of constituents each holds across the UK (apart from those where the statutory geographic area is at its max; say in the Scottish Highlands). It is not a Liberal aspiration to embed a Tory majority by reducing the number of MPs but keeping the old system of first-past-the-post. I believe that the reduction in the number of MPs could well be justifiable but equal numbers in constituencies may lead to weaker democracy as MPs will have much greater lengths to travel to visit their constituents across their constituency. Essentially taking democracy further away from the people.

Also depending on what side of the fence you sit, if the constituency size is increased in Wales, then it weakens the union. The number of MPs in Wales was introduced at 40 to compensate for the small number of MPs (30) that would be returned if they were the same size of English constituencies, ensuring that the voice of Wales was heard in the union. This is particularly noteworthy given the overwhelming population size of England compared to the other nations in the UK. If they wish to weaken the union in such a way then it is also reasonable that Welsh people be given the opportunity to vote for an Assembly with tax raising as well as primary legislative powers. With a reduction in Welsh MPs to 30, our already marginal voice in Westminster will be further eroded, leaving little room for impact by the people of Wales. In such a case, it would well be worthwhile for the Assembly to have tax raising powers so that we can manage our own internal affairs and ensure that the voice of Welsh people will be heard and well represented. Is the coalition willing to investigate ways for the voice of the people of Wales to be heard in Westminster to safeguard the union – if indeed they are committed to it.

Related posts:

1. Queen’s Speech offers real reform for Wales
2. A Lib Dem writing about electoral reform? That’s new!
3. Verdict on First Minister’s Questions