One look at the British newspapers clearly reveals the state of a country dear to us: a loss of all sense of direction. One hopes it is only momentary. The referendum held in Britain is a huge lesson for all of us and we should take this opportunity to really understand what populist politics can lead to.
The renowned philosopher AC Grayling has sent a letter to all 650 British MPs. He urges them not to support a motion to trigger article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty. The letter gives a deep insight into the responsibilities of decision-making, particularly in circumstances like those Britain is facing today.
Grayling points out that the referendum was advisory and non-binding. He also highlights “that there are major questions about the circumstances of the respective Remain and especially Leave campaigns regarding probity of information, claims and promises made to voters.” Backed by other strong reasons, Grayling insists that the British Parliament has the power to “use its discretion to determine that it is not in the UK’s interests to leave the EU.”
This, of course, is a very controversial argument. It seems to question the voters’ capacity to know what is good for them and what is not. It might sound paternalistic. Grayling defines the referendum as “a decision by crowd acclamation” and brings forward the argument that many advanced and mature political systems opt to take such huge decisions through representative democracy (i.e. parliament) as opposed to “direct democracy” (i.e. a referendum).
To support this point, Grayling gives examples of bills which pass through parliament and which would fail to pass if presented directly to the public. These bills include health and safety laws and regulations, higher education reform and the use of chemicals in water treatment plant.
Another very hot argument made by Grayling is what he calls “the interest of the young.” Statistically the referendum split the United Kingdom not just geographically but also “along the fault lines of educational level and age.” In a very daring appeal, Grayling urges British MPs to safeguard the future of the United Kingdom: “There is every reason to urge that the wishes and interests of the young – the younger, more aspirational creators of the country’s future – should be given most weight.”
I must say that this letter has not just given me food for thought. It has stimulated me to think deeper about the role of politics, politicians, parliament and will of the electorate.
The Brexit events and the resignations (or withdrawal from the subsequent leadership race) of all those responsible for this huge mess has left a very bitter taste in people’s mouths. I can understand what they think about politicians and their trustworthiness.
Despite its different circumstances, Malta could be wading in similar dangerous waters. The promises made by Labour prior to the 2013 elections are now seeming to be a mere figment of our collective imagination. Unfortunately they are not.
Transparency, meritocracy and accountability, along with many other beautiful words, were used to get a majority to think that all was wrong in the past and that all will be absolutely fabulous with Joseph Muscat at the helm. Even those surrounding Muscat believed in him and the dream he sold. But now, when I sit in parliament and look across the chamber, I know what I see.
There are several members on the government side who can hardly stand the trickery any more. They, much more than us, can see through the Machiavellian who sold a roadmap but had no plan. They know that, deep down, Muscat and the chosen few who share his offices in Castille do not put the national interest first if it conflicts with their personal ambitions.
It hurts to know how many Maltese citizens were conned into believing half-truths and outright lies. So similar to the Brexit campaign to leave the EU, isn’t it?