Democracy arrived in the UK thanks to popular movements which pressured a reluctant Parliament into democratic change. Part 2 of this article picks up the story beginning with the Chartists.
To protect and renew the rule of law we need to re-imagine our democracy. This Spring's Assemblies for Democracy have a vital role to play.
As Assemblies for Democracy prepare to meet this Spring in London, Manchester and Glasgow, it is time to look again at the history of popular assembly in the struggle for democracy in Britain.
As we approach the general election, how can we make democracy real and vivid to citizens who do not feel part of the political process?
The next election will likely see a slight increase in female representation in parliament - but not nearly enough.
Do citizens conventions and assemblies offer a way of giving republican political ideals a practical expression?
The polls predict a hung parliament after the May 2015 election. More than one potential government could be viable. How will negotiations proceed? Which actors will have a privileged role in the bargaining process?
The creation of a new elected mayor for Greater Manchester takes further forward a decade of constructive innovation - but there are crucial issues of inclusion and public engagement which must be got right.
The case for elected mayors has not been scrutinised sufficiently. The imposition of an elected mayor on Greater Manchester in particular risks undermining a delicate local political balance and is an act of elitism that might well backfire.
There are simple solutions to the UK's party funding mess.
Labour doesn't need a majority for Miliband to become Prime Minister. The sooner he accepts that, the better his chance of getting into Number 10.
A bi-partisan approach to reform is currently adopted, but can it work?
