These words were the political pistol shot which officially announced the start of the race, a race between the three largest parties in the country to convince us common folk that they should be in charge. A week ago the race for public support seemed intense but now that the date for the election has been announced, things seem to have gone into overdrive.
I'm not going to shower you with my opinion of who should be running the country because, firstly, you probably don't care what I think, but most importantly, I think that the political system is messed up. Let me explain. Democracy is when several parties put forward what they think is the bast way to run the country and then the people decide which of these ideals and strategies is best for the nation. However, looking at the news, campaign leaflets and adverts, all I can see are political parties who change their policies to gain support and win the election. It's a competition now instead of being a selection. Each party is looking out for itself by picking and choosing what will get them support, instead of what is truly best for the country. Take national insurance for example. Labour announce that to help claw back some of the crippling debt we've accumulated they will raise national insurance. In response to this the Tories say they'll half it, immediately gaining the support of dozens of businesses who don't want to see the higher insurance. Every time they're asked how they'll plug the £6 billion gap left from cutting the insurance they don't have an answer.
All I'm saying is that if you're reading this and have no idea (like many people) who to vote for look beyond promises said in the last couple of months. Wipe away the campaign slogans, the flashy smiles or pictures of the leaders cycling to work. Look at the lifeblood and history of what the party stands for before making a decision.
When the race comes to a close it'll probably be a photo finish but lets hope that when the results come in the winner will be able to keep running after the finish line and not just collapse on the track.
I wish there was a like button as there is on Facebook :P
ReplyDeleteBut seriously, political parties are a joke. They make sugar coated campaigns to please the masses, and then once in power they do what the hell they like.
I completely agree with you, Andy. The political parties are all so busy targeting demographics that you've no idea where they actually stand- they're sort of like dads who only get the kids on the weekend, so make them all sorts of promises so that they'll say they like him more when it counts. I've been writing something upon their tactics myself, you'll see it when I post it up- it pretty much further serves to prove your point.
ReplyDeleteNice article, Andy. I won't be old enough to vote, but - you guessed rightly - I would not be sure which party to choose if I could vote.
ReplyDeleteI quite like the Swiss democratic system. They never elect one party into power, and the public has to be consulted about every little issue.
Hmm, yes... Anyone here remember we were meant to have a referendum on the Lisbon treaty? It's quite funny how the Tories have been silent over Labour's broken promise about that one.
I agree with Khadija about the like button :)
ReplyDeleteTotally agree with your article!