How to have your say in politics

You do not need to be a member of parliament, local councillor or even a member of a political party to have your say in politics. There are lots of reasons for you to have your say in politics:

• You have a view on a particular Government policy or action
• There is a local or national issue that you are unhappy with
• You have a question for the Government or you would like them to do something i.e introduce a new law or change something. 

It is easier than you think to offer your views to the Government and there are several ways you can do this. 

Sign or set up a petition 

A petition is a request to the government that is signed by a group of people. Anyone can create a petition using the relevant parliament’s website. Dependent on the petition’s subject, some may fall under the jurisdiction of the UK Government and others may be the responsibility of the devolved governments. 

The petition may ask for a new law, changes to be made to existing law or for a particular course of action to be taken by the government. Signing a petition means you are showing that you agree with what is being asked.

Contact your local representative 

Anyone can get in touch with their local MP, MSP, MS, MLA or Local Councillor. 

You can ask them a question about or offer your views about government business. For example:

• There are high levels of crime in your local area
• A local business has closed down
• You are unhappy with a local service
• You do not support a new law or government action

There are several ways your representative could help. Perhaps they could raise the issue in parliament, speak to senior officials or even campaign against it. 

There are several ways you can contact a representative. You can write, email or phone their office and some even have social media accounts. If you prefer to speak to them face to face, representatives also hold surgeries (not the medical kind). This is when members of the public can meet them in person (usually in a public building) to discuss an issue.

Take part in a government consultation 

Governments sometimes set up consultations on a range of issues for which members of the public can take part.

First, you will be provided with some background information on the topic. Next, you will be asked a series of questions or perhaps asked to explain your views on the matter. 

Taking part in consultations is an opportunity to contribute your views to possible future laws or policies. To find current consultations simply search on the UK Government website or one of the devolved Governments. 

https://consult.gov.scot

https://www.gov.uk/search/policy-papers-and-consultations

https://gov.wales/consultations

https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/public-consultations

Join a political party 

This may not be for everyone but if you are interested in politics and you agree with the policies of a party you could join them as a member. However, this does not make you a Member of Parliament or a Local Councillor.

Being a party member allows you to take part in activities. For instance:

• Suggest ideas for party policies
• Help choose candidates for local government or parliamentary elections
• Join in with campaigning at election time
• Vote for the leader of the party

Party members also regularly discuss current Government policies and proposals for new policies or laws. Being a member will allow you to take part in these discussions. 

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