Local group rally to ‘defend our democracy’

THE European Movement Mendip held a ‘Defend our Democracy’ rally on Saturday 21st September at Boyles Cross. 

Coordinator of European Movement Kathryn said, “At the rally, which was MC’d by Jaye Mason, Lib Dem candidate for Somerton and Frome, Adam Boyden, and Green candidate, Andrea Dexter, made prominent speeches.

“Lollie, a young supporter of the rights of individuals to hold the elected representatives to account, also made an impassioned speech. 

“The focus of the gathering was to draw attention to the importance of parliamentary democracy and to make sure our hard-won votes are not ridden roughshod over in what appeared to be a misuse of power. The prorogation of Parliament for five weeks was held to be illegal because the customary prorogation before a Queen’s speech has typically been less than one week since the 1980s. It was believed that the PM was trying to shut down Parliament and thus avoid scrutiny of the government’s plans. The Supreme Court upheld that view on Tuesday and thankfully MPs are again sitting.

“To protect our fragile democracy it is vital that members of the public take an interest in politics and are ready to stand up for democracy when the need arises. It was heartening to see the people of Frome and surrounding areas willing to do just that.

“The rally went very well. There was a very good atmosphere but a serious one nonetheless, as we felt strongly that we should be heard. We were at pains to say that this was not about Brexit, although Boris Johnson prorogued to avoid discussion of Brexit, but something much larger. 

“We also spoke about how the way to solve this crisis, once democracy had been restored, was to remind ourselves of what we have in common. How most people just want decent, affordable houses to live in, good schools and hospitals, proper care for the elderly and so on. It’s very important to remember that none of these issues will be solved by Brexit and may be made worse but that we mustn’t let views on Brexit stop us from treating each other with respect and listening to and trying to solve the problems people have.

“It is unfortunate our Prime Minister seems to be doing the opposite by stirring up more aggression and distrust in the people we should be trusting – parliament and the judiciary.” 

Picture: Drew Gardner.