Something is wrong with a system, which can be influenced by externals groups and individuals. Unions, corporations and private individuals are able to undermine the true nature of a representative democracy by the lobbying system. Large corporations lobby for the government to have more power, and in return the government enacts laws and regulations favourable to large corporations. And government, in an institutional sense, maintains and allows this practice to occur.
Minister proclaim they understand the pain of the protesters, even though begging bowls are routinely left outside the headquarters of those who finance the political parties. The abuse and channels of exploitation -apparently- have nothing to do with politicians; the representatives are either ignorant and blind stupid, or deliberately ignoring the grotesque relationship between politicians and lobbyists. Parliament, which Paine describes as the "only republican element of our constitution", has succumb to vested interests. The accountability of Members of Parliament have rapidly deteriorated over the last thirty years and a benevolent dictatorship has emerged, albeit partially democratic.
The Occupy Movement, which I timidly endorsed, correctly denounces corporate welfare and the hideous financial bailouts. Protesters have routinely discussed greed and excess in the private sector, but what about the greed of government? Public spending is still increasing, even though we are apparently experiencing austerity. Majority of which are debt payments, which was accumulated without our consent. The corporations, private individuals and trade unions are still writing the cheques for the politicians whilst the rest of society are witnessing shrinking incomes. How can that be fair?
Government needs reform; the institution must, once again, become accountable to Parliament. MP expenses are still far from perfect, with some members complaining that it is too draconian and unfair. The lobby register seems to be extremely watered down and lacks transparency; and backbenchers power are non-existent, even though we were promised reform. If Parliament will not listen, then we should be prepared to become vocal and active. After all, it was founded to represent the people of this country.
Occupy LSX and Wall Street must come to the conclusion that government is not just a segment of the problem, but fundamentally, the cause of the financial crisis. This "not me, guv" attitude from the officials who run this country needs to be exposed. Libertarians and the left should consider standing independently in elections, in order to create a more transparent administration. St Pauls is not the seat of power in this country - Westminster is. Members of Parliament will continue to enjoy the lucrative lobby program whilst the main anger is focused on the City of London; an institution that has always been a cash cow for countless governments. Who do you think encourage the growth of the City? Not the bankers, it was the Treasury team who dismissed the fears of bubbles, debt and complicated products. As a former US President once said, government IS the problem.