Democracy and constitution
We are working to renew our constitution and revitalise our democracy to build a new relationship between citizens and government. Freedom of Information has resulted in government which is more open than ever before. Devolution for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland has brought decision-making closer to people and government is becoming more accountable to Parliament and citizens through their elected MPs.
Reforming the House of Lords will lead to a strengthened, more legitimate second chamber with members who directly represent the public and scrutinise the government on their behalf. A new Supreme Court has replaced the judicial function of the House of Lords, formally separating the judges who apply the law from the people who make the law. Its 12 members will decide on important points of law and act as the highest court of appeal.
Democracy flourishes when people value and participate in it. We want to ensure that everyone who has the right to vote is able to exercise it in accessible and secure elections. We are considering reforms to make it easier for people to take part in elections and register to vote, with new security measures to prevent fraud or abuse of the system.
Alongside reforms to the electoral system, we are working to increase the transparency of our politics by regulating the way political parties raise and spend money, to safeguard public confidence in the political process.
We also oversee fundamental human rights, including the right to freedom of expression and the right to a fair trial. We are working to ensure that all public authorities understand and consider our human rights, and the broader needs of society, when developing policies and delivering services.
We are also responsible for data protection and, working with the Information Commissioner, produces guidance and promotes best practice to raise standards across the private and public sector to ensure people’s personal information is properly protected and treated with respect.
We also work with other European and international countries to encourage cooperation across borders, including protecting people from crime, helping them access effective justice systems and respecting their rights, at home and abroad.