Obviously MySociety’s suggestion is millions of times better then grubby glossys.

To be a bit more charitable to MPs, if by any chance any of you read this, how do you know people don’t know what you do, I assume my MP is busy solving detailed individual constituency cases and that I can get help from my MP if ever I needed to ask, no need to persuade me of the need for an MP. I might vote for the oppostion party to my sitting MP but that would be about party politics wouldn’t it? Suggest I am not alone.

Blue is very prominent as the main colour, though no direct mention of the Party (other than in the selective quotes from the press) that I could see, but plenty of references to Shadow jobs.

There are 21 photos featuring the MP.

It basically showcases what the MP has done, been involved in – not just in the Commons – foreign visits, areas of interest etc., views on the Olympics etc., and an adjournment debate that he secured.

Does it engage local people? I’d say not, at least not in key issues and policies.

There’s much more emphasis on more ‘normal’ constituency surgery and individual matters – and feedback and thoughts on how helful he has been in getting some sort of solution.

Suggesting some novel ways that MPs could engage ‘proactively with their constituents ….. on parliamentary ….. business.
…… and help ….. inform their constituents about what they have been doing and to consult them on key issues, especially of a local nature.’ surely should be welcomed – and no area or means, whether it be pooling of resources or using different media, should be ruled out.

I’ll follow up with our MP on the suggestion. He and his office have been responsive on a variety of issues, as well as with individual problems, so I expect that they would be open to practical suggestions.

Dominc

But if they must have it, could they spend it in diverse ways rather than all getting some bog-standard solution(s).

“Scope of the allowance

9. The Communications Allowance (CA) should be available to meet the cost of Members engaging proactively with their constituents through a variety of media. It could be used for the production of unsolicited communications within the parameters set out in the rules which will be issued. We are clear that this new allowance—like others—should be for parliamentary and not party political or personal business.

10. The Communications Allowance may only be used to help Members inform their constituents about what they have been doing and to consult them on key issues, especially of a local nature. It cannot be used to meet personal costs, or the costs of party political activities or campaigning.”

So, yes I think he is entitled to do as he proposes. So get ready for more oversized newsletters with pictures of your grinning MP and delightful constituents. I shall go ask mine now what he intends doing.

“I have to admit that I am not entirely sure how doing this will help let my constituents know more about what I am doing on their behalf in Parliament nor whether the House of Commons authorities would allow it. Unless somebody could persuade me of this I will not be taking up your suggestion I am afraid; I intend to use my allowance to produce leaflets to explain to … what I have been doing as their MP.”

Is he correct?