Hung parliament: an opportunity for electoral reform

On Tuesday, I appeared on BBC1 to talk about my thoughts on the election and predicted that there would be a hung parliament. Unlike the Tory Party I believe that this provides us with an opportunity. It means that there will need to be a degree of compromise if any two or more parties are to work together to form a majority in the House of Commons. This in itself will mean that all parties will need to listen to each other to find a way through the current ambiguity. For more information on what a hung parliament could mean for the country then do check out this.

Most importantly a hung parliament provides the biggest mandate to bring about change and electoral reform. Many of us have wanted to see a form of proportional representation introduced for some time and have been frustrated about the lack of progress. Also it would be wonderful to have a parliament with representation from minority parties in particular the Green party. I, for one, was heartened to discover that we have our first Green MP in Brighton.

Over the next few hours, the Conservatives and Lib Dems in particular are going to find themselves engaging in negotiations with the hope of making a backroom deal. What I am going to ask you to do is to take five minutes and have your say on electoral reform by letting senior Lib Dem politicians know how you feel here. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity so don't miss it.