Gary's views

Gary's weekly views

Each week an article by Gary has appeared in the Plympton Plymstock and Ivybridge News in South West Devon. The articles are published here

solution based politics

Never mind 1st January, September heralds the start of the New Year for most of us. Back from our hols, kids back to school, football season in full swing again and for 657 of us Parliament returns.

And this year I go back to Westminster with a fresh insight gained from our dog Arthur. He has been part of our family since his fence jumping antics caught our eye at a visit to the Gables Cat and Dog home. He is small and white but sadly born totally deaf, so the poor little chap can’t hear a thing. But when he is naughty – digging holes in our front lawn is a particular favourite – it is very hard to stop yourself from shouting at him, even though you know he can’t hear. Shouting at him is an entirely natural instinct and gives you the impression that you are doing something to make a difference. But it is utterly ineffective. The right strategy is to walk into his field of vision and make clear hand signals to him. 9 times out of 10 he obeys.

I have come to the view that opposition politics is a bit like that. It is tempting to spend all of our time ranting and raving about the government. It is the natural thing for politicians to do. It feels as though you are doing something useful. But it is utterly ineffective. The right strategy is to assess the problems facing us all, catch the attention of the voters and spell out the solutions.

With our rampant modern media, I am not sure that opposition politicians need to do much hollering these days. The press are pretty good at that themselves. Of course we must hold ministers to account at Westminster – that is vital. Forensic examination of policy is essential. But the most important thing of all – especially when we are surrounded by so much obvious failure – is to clearly set out what we would do to solve the problem. Very few people say to me they want more aggression in politics. Many people express the view that a more constructive approach from their elected representatives would be welcome.

They want solutions.

As we enter this new season, our country faces many challenges – not least how to make our antiquated public services deliver real quality and choice. Tough decisions face us. I return to London determined to remember Arthur and focus on solutions.

posted by Nigel on Tuesday, September 09, 2003