A National Commission that delivers: sign our open letter
Open Britain has written to the Democracy Minister setting out how the National Commission on Electoral Reform can deliver lasting change. Now we’re inviting you to add your name.
Who leads it, what it examines and how you get a say are being decided now. Those choices will shape whether its recommendations earn public trust — and become law.
Securing the commission was a major step forward. But we’ve seen electoral reform stall before: the Jenkins Commission’s report was shelved, while the 2011 referendum left many voters wondering why those were the only choices on offer.
We want this opportunity to deliver.
Our letter sets out six safeguards:
Agree the tests first. Let the commission establish what a good voting system must do before assessing the options.
Give every system a fair hearing. Test First Past the Post against the same criteria as the alternatives.
Put voters at the heart of it. Establish a representative voters’ forum alongside a wider national conversation.
Protect its independence. Appoint independent commissioners, with every party invited to contribute through a separate reference group.
Set a deadline and require a response. Establish the commission by early 2027, reporting within twelve months, followed by a Government response and debate in both Houses.
Keep it focused. Address how we elect the House of Commons, with a clear route from recommendations to legislation.
We’ve worked hard together to secure this opportunity. Now we need to give it the best chance of delivering change that lasts. That means a commission people can trust, with the public involved throughout and a clear commitment to act on its findings.
Adding your name will help show the Minister how many people have a stake in getting this right — and want their voices heard as the commission takes shape.
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GET INVOLVED
One thing you can do right now.
Our top priority is pushing Parliament to establish a National Commission on Electoral Reform — an independent, evidence-based review of whether our voting system is still fit for purpose. It starts with public pressure. Add your voice.
