Yesterday I sent an email to my local MP, George Galloway, to encourage him to campaign against the Digital Economy Bill which is rushing through Parliament at alarming speed.
I was surprised to get a response so quickly. Here is his reply to me.
Thank you for your email – I share your very justifiable concerns about the draconian measures contained in the Bill, and I am also angered by the way the government is preparing to rush it through – with the loyal support of the opposition and certain Lib Dem peers it would seem – without any time for proper debate or scrutiny.
I can only see this whole debacle as one last reckless insult to democracy from a regime that should have placed itself before the electorate long ago.
I’ve recently been expressing opposition to the Bill on Twitter and Facebook.
I am also writing to the Speaker to ask for proper Parliamentary time for scrutiny and debate.
Naturally I am in favour of the workers in all the relevant industries receiving fair remuneration, but I do not think that forcing through this Bill, with all its inherent dangers, against the profound misgivings of the public, is the way to go. Given time, and good will, I am sure that mutually acceptable solutions could emerge.
Once again, however, this government is prepared to trample over your human rights in the name of political expediency. Surely the last days of a dying government should have been devoted to more productive matters. What about freeing local councils to directly invest in housing? Or reforming the laws that criminalise photographers and people peacefully protesting? Or agreeing to a Robin Hood tax on the banks?
With best wishes
GG
Apparently George received over 100 similar emails of protest from his constituents (according to his Twitter feed). This is actually the second time that I’ve contacted George – and I must admit, he has replied pretty damn quick on both occasions.
However actions speak louder than words. While it’s good to expression opposition online via Twitter and Facebook, he will get the opportunity to debate and ultimately vote on the bill. Unfortunately, George has one of the worst voting records in the house. I hope that on this occasion he takes action.
