I knew to expect some cynicism and press intrusion. But I had not counted on quite the degree to which public disillusion with politicians would descend, and at such a pace.
I still believe those who strive for elected office in this country do so with honourable intent, to try to improve life for the public they serve, rather than themselves. But there have been some sorry scenes of self-inflicted foolishness by a few MPs this Parliament, which undermine public confidence in all. This is deeply disturbing, not just to the large majority of us who do our best to help others, but more alarmingly to the fabric of our political system.
Probity in politics transcends party allegiance. But under this administration there have been worrying developments which are accelerating the loss of trust. Ministers no longer accept responsibility for their actions or those of their departments or public bodies for which they are accountable. Ministers now only seem to do the honourable thing once pushed to the brink by the media.
Over Easter we learnt one of the most senior policy advisers in Downing Street itself spent time dreaming up smear attacks and personal innuendos against political opponents. Such a focus on personal muck-raking, as the economy was sinking into recession, plumbs new depths.
We need to re-establish confidence in politicians. We should make a start by: Ministers taking not shirking responsibility; cutting the number of MPs; and being transparent over what MPs are paid.
