Does It Matter If Your MP's A Local?

[Fosse Boy]

Good article here on the subject:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/election_2010/8619315.stm

What does everyone reckon? I think that given the type of electoral system we have, it's pivotal that MPs are able to serve the constituents who voted them in. Surely the best way for them to be able to do this is if they have ties to the particular locality that they serve?

[davieG]

Good article here on the subject:

http://news.bbc.co.u...010/8619315.stm

What does everyone reckon? I think that given the type of electoral system we have, it's pivotal that MPs are able to serve the constituents who voted them in. Surely the best way for them to be able to do this is if they have ties to the particular locality that they serve?

Considering most of the decisions voted on by MPs are dictated by their political party and are part of national policy I can't see that it's that important. The first port of call should be your local councillor even then if they don't agree with your politics/view they're hardly going to put themselves out but should they choose to do so then they would/could contact the most relevant MP.

What you need above all else is someone who believes in you and being able to solicit the help of the nearest one who supports your views seems to me to be the best option.

How that could be managed I don't know.

Just to add I think we have far too many MPs, let's have some efficiency savings and reduce them by 50%

[AoWW]

It matters to me, yes. I think it's important they have first-hand knowledge of the area they represent.

[Trav Le Bleu]

It matters to me, yes. I think it's important they have first-hand knowledge of my area and their peasants.

[Guest Bilo]

I'd rather vote for somebody who knows the area and has a personal as well as a professional interest in its development and strong representation.

I wouldn't want to get embroiled in provincialism where anyone outside the area is immediately discounted, but it would form part of my decision making for definite.