Democracy and Unelected Strong Leaders

Lord Evans of Sealand Excerpts

Thursday 3rd April 2025 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent (Lab)]

My Lords, I door-knock and campaign every weekend—the joys of being engaged to a Member of Parliament. This Government are clear on our responsibilities to our local electorates and about making sure that local people feel that they have a voice in our politics. That is why we are bringing forward a devolution Bill.

[Lord Evans of Sealand (Lab)]

My Lords, democracy depends on participation. As UK Labour Party general secretary at the last general election, I witnessed too much vile and unacceptable behaviour aimed at candidates from all mainstream parties. Too many choose not to stand as a result. With Jo Cox being quoted across this Parliament, can the Minister say how the Government are acting on the very necessary recommendations set out by the commission established in her name to promote political civility?

[Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent (Lab)]

I thank my noble friend for his question. Jo Cox was my friend, and noble Lords across your Lordships’ House will appreciate both her legacy and that of Sir David Amess. On the political civility commission, I am so pleased that, before she joined your Lordships’ House, my noble friend Lady Smith of Malvern chaired it and published the report last year. All mainstream political parties have engaged and there were 28 recommendations, 12 of which are in progress and seven adopted, and there are three for individual parties to adopt. It is a core part of what we do, and the Government have a responsibility, with our Defending Democracy Taskforce, to keep safe those who are brave enough to put their name on the ballot paper.