MPs Need to Follow their Code of Conduct

It is commonly acknowledged that the Brexit referendum took place with the majority of British electors at best poorly understanding the issues and consequences. The conduct of the referendum, its outcome, the botched responses and the subsequent divisive nature of the ongoing arguments all illustrate how referenda represent a dangerous form of political decision making, and why we have a representative democracy.

In principle, we should be led by those who have greater time and expertise than Joe Public to debate the issues of the day and to make decisions on behalf of society and for its better interests. It is sad to observe that all too often MPs vote to support their own prejudices, or those of their electorate, and do not consider the wider interests of the country.

This approach, coupled with the influence of the news media and the vast resources available to vested interests has resulted in a body politic which is anything but democratic.

The following is taken from the House of Commons Code of Conduct:

6. Members have a general duty to act in the interests of the nation as a whole; and a special duty to their constituents.

How can we persuade our MPs to actually do this?