Our political system is stagnant. The establishment parties fight among themselves, but only a handful of MPs are willing to speak out for a radical change of direction.

Most people were against the illegal war on Iraq. But parliament voted it through. Most people were revolted at the unfairness of handing billions to greedy bankers while leaving them in control of our economy. But who was speaking out for us?

Millions of people want to end the obsession with free market fundamentalism and the inequality and division it causes. But our voting system squeezes out radical voices and rewards the useless but loyal MP.

Those arguing for radical change can come second or third in seat after seat, and represent a significant voice in society. But under our unfair voting system this means no MPs, no voice in parliament, and no change to failed policies.

It is time for a radical reform of our democracy. The first-past-the-post system - where the winner takes all - must be replaced by a fair system of proportional representation.

We need a system of proportional representation, where every vote counts, wherever you live. Where there is fair voting – in Scotland and Wales – we can see how the progressive majority can come together. In Scotland that means no tuition fees for university students. In Wales prescription charges are free.

Unfair voting leads to so-called safe seats, MPs taking their voters for granted at best, treating them with contempt at worst, piling up their expense accounts and never mind the consequences because . . . well there won't be any.

If we want a fair society, then we need radical voices in parliament. To break the dominance of the discredited political establishment we need a fair voting system. It would enable the British people to elect the progressive majority and support the radical change of policies the British people need.

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We are asking members (and our many supporters whom we wish to become members) to consider standing in the elections for Respect. Already we have people coming forward from towns such as Rochdale and Oldham, and places as different as Bournemouth or Bradford, urban Reading or rural Lincolnshire. These Respect candidates will become ambassadors for peace, justice, equality at the ballot box.

We will need many more and we will need an army of volunteers – to raise the funds, knock on doors, and sign up new members and supporters. Respect intends to be part of the progressive challenge to the politics of 'business as usual'.

Respect was formed because we believed there needed to be an alternative to the three main parties of privatisation and war. The case for that alternative has never been stronger. Can you help us? Visit www.voterespect.org for more details.

To join Respect (membership costs £10/£5 per year) please visit http://www.therespectparty.net/joindonate.php?page=join

To make a donation to our General Election fighting fund please visit http://www.therespectparty.net/joindonate.php?page=donate

If you think you would be a suitable candidate to stand for Respect in a Westminster or local council election please visit

http://www.gmrespect.org.uk/GEselection2009 and fill in the initial information form online.

15/06/2009 Westminster in crisis: We need a fair voting system.

15/06/2009
Westminster in crisis: We need a fair voting system.