Last Friday a group of Islanders gathered at the Riverside Centre to discuss their concerns about the Lobbying Bill, which was debated in the House of Commons this week. Barbara Clough was kind enough to share this report from the meeting. In her own words. Ed
I am a member of the campaigning group 38 Degrees who have been involved with organising campaigns on matters of public concern for several years.
Meeting organised with MP
Members who were concerned at the ‘gagging’ effect that Part 2 of The Lobbying Bill being rushed through Parliament without adequate scrutiny, would have on the functioning of charities and non political organisations, were asked to write to their MP.
Approx 20 emails were sent to Andrew Turner and I was asked to arrange a meeting with him which was held at the Riverside Centre on Friday 6 September. At least 15 constituents were present.
A threat to Freedom of Speech
There was universal concern that Part 2 of the Bill in its present form would threaten a vital part of British democracy, the right to Freedom of Speech.
The unintended consequences of a matter of public concern are more likely to be apparent to people involved who make their voice heard, eg. an earlier successful campaign on Save our Forests which was taken up nationwide.
Serious deleterious effects
The IW depends considerably on the voluntary services of members of the Island community.
From May 2014 – May 2015 the proposed financial constraints in the Bill would have serious deleterious effects restricting charities and non political groups speaking up on the big issues.
Too late to refer back
Andrew Turner said it was now too late to refer the Bill back for six months, but the Committee for Political and Constitutional Reform was aware of aspects of the Bill which urgently needed clarifying during the three day debate that took place this week.
We asked our MP if he would vote in favour of amendments which change the wording to ensure charities, community groups and campaigners are not gagged.
There is an update on Andrew Turner’s Website. He says,
“I believe it is a great pity that this important issue has been handled so badly.”
Find out more about the Lobbying Bill and read the debates that took place this week.
