March 2008
Audit of Political Engagement 5
The Hansard Society published its 5th annual Audit of Political Engagement with a special focus on the Constitution. The Audit measures the nature and extent of political engagement through a national survey conducted by IpsosMORI. This year’s research also includes data on public attitudes to constitutional reform including issues such as the House of Lords, a Bill [...]
Commission to Review the Scotland Act
Professor Sir Kenneth Calman has agreed to serve as Chair of the Commission to review the Scotland Act.
The Politics of National Identity - Speech
Justice Minister Michael Wills has given a speech to the Institute for Public Policy Research on the politics of national identity.
Constitutional Renewal White Paper and Draft Bill
Justice Secretary Jack Straw has announced new proposals to give Parliament more power to hold the government to account and strengthen its relationship with the people. A White Paper, draft Constitutional Renewal Bill and analysis of consultation responses were published today following a statement in the House of Commons. The documents can be found here. Any [...]
Lord Goldsmith QC Citizenship Review
Lord Goldsmith QC has today published his report on citizenship: ‘Citizenship: Our common bond’. “My recommendations are intended to promote the meaning and significance of citizenship within modern Britain.” The full report can be found here.
Kick-starting a national debate on a Bill of Rights and Responsibilities
Michael Wills, Justice Minister, gave a speech yesterday at the Constitution Unit, University College London on the need for a national debate on constitutional reform to inform discussions about the new Bill of Rights and Responsibilities. “…the debate that will shortly begin on the Bill of Rights and Responsibilities can only make sense in the context of the wider debate [...]
Putting communities in control
Communities Secretary Hazel Blears has today announced plans for a new White Paper focused on giving people a real say on improving local services and promoting active citizenship. The Empowerment White Paper, to be published in the Summer, will set out how the untapped talent of communities can be unleashed to ensure everyone has a greater say in [...]
Margaret Hodge’s speech on Britishness, Heritage and the Arts
Margaret Hodge has today made a speech on Britishness, Heritage and the Arts at an IPPR event at the National Gallery. Should cultural institutions promote shared values and a common national identity? Further details of the speech can be found here.