2001 General Election Campaigning

The transcript discusses the importance of political representatives serving their entire community, not just party interests. It highlights the negative impact of Parliament's denigration on democracy and public trust. The speaker emphasizes the need for MPs to balance party loyalty with local issues. Additionally, the transcript addresses the challenges of bussing children to distant schools, affecting their participation in local activities.

Why is it important for elected officials to work for the entire community?

• To gain more media attention

• To ensure they get re-elected

• To strengthen democracy and reduce public cynicism

• To increase their salary

What can lead to public disillusionment with politics?

• Politicians focusing on international issues

• Politicians changing their political party

• Politicians attending too many public events

• Politicians representing only the party line

What is a potential benefit of a backbench MP voting against their party?

• It can lead to a promotion

• It increases party loyalty

• It reduces their workload

• It shows independence on local issues

What is a major concern with bussing children to distant schools?

• It limits children's participation in local activities

• It increases school funding

• It improves academic performance

• It reduces transportation costs

Why should current educational policies be examined carefully?

• To increase the number of schools

• To reduce the number of teachers

• To ensure children can participate in local activities

• To improve school infrastructure