Our system of government is in crisis.It has lost the confidence of most people, many of whom no longer vote.We have an unfair electoral system and no written constitution.

Decisions are taken in secret and far away from the communities most affected.Archaic elements like the Monarchy and House of Lords remain. It ishardly surprising that this system cannot face up to the decisionsneeded to create a sustainable society.

Our Aims

The Green Party wants to fundamentally change the way this system works – to modernise and decentralise it, and make it fairer, more open and more accountable.

The Green Party would:

1. Devise a new written constitution, defining rights and responsibilities.
2. Introduce Elected Regional Assemblies in England.
3. Set up new Parish and Community Councils.
4. Replace the House of Lords with a wholly elected 2nd chamber.
5. Conduct elections by a system of proportional representation.
6. Abolish the constitutional functions of the monarchy.
7. Disestablish the Church of England, placing all religions and denominations on the same footing.
8. Reduce the voting age to 16 years.

Addressing Your Concerns

• Why destroy institutions that have operated for years?

Because they are not working.Almost a majority of people do not believe it is worth voting.Far-reaching change is needed if our institutions are to be relevant.

• Won't a written constitution simply enrich lawyers?

Nearly every country in the world has a written constitution– they don't have protracted legal disputes (except for the US). Giventhe growth of judicial review in the UK, a clearer system may actuallyreduce disputes.

• Won't new levels of government mean more bureaucracy?

Different levels of government will not duplicate responsibilities - they will divide up the roles of government in an appropriate way.Many regional agencies already exist as unelected quangos withoutaccountability. Elected regional assemblies would offer greaterdemocracy – features absent from current bureaucracies.

• Isn't this against the trend towards globalisation and the proposed centralization of the European Community?

Yes.We recognise the importance of addressing issues of common concern atthe European and international levels, but not through a Europeansuper-state or inappropriate bodies like the World Trade Organisation(WTO) which undermine local democracy and global justice.

• Don't we need a strong nation state to secure defence against aggressors?

Each function of government has an appropriate level,and defence would remain a national responsibility. But real securitydepends upon a much stronger commitment to international cooperationand genuine efforts for justice and peace.

• Will these changes make politicians more responsible for their actions?

For democracy to work properly people must be able to play an active part and hold their representatives to account.But as well as real democracy we need policies for social justice andprotection of the planet. People must be able to take responsibilityfor the policies of the politicians they elect.

Learn More

Related Sections in the Manifesto for a Sustainable Society:
Green Councils
Principles of Government
Public Administration
Responsibilities and Rights