‘The people of England regards itself as free; but it is grossly mistaken; it is free only during the election of members of parliament. As soon as they are elected, slavery overtakes it, and it is nothing.’ (Jean-Jacques Rousseau, The Social Contract (1762) Book III Chapter XV)

Discuss how effectively the voices of voters may be heard both during and after elections to the House of Commons.

• How much influence do voters have over the Commons?
• Consider the electoral process in general elections. How far does it produce a representative Commons? Consider whether alternative voting systems would produce a more representative chamber
• Discuss the relationship between voters and their MP. How close is the constituency link? How can the concerns of voters be heard in parliament between elections? How do backbench MPs ensure that their constituents’ voices are heard in the Commons? You could bring in the views of Edmund Burke here. Are they accurate?
• Discuss the importance of a credible Opposition, e-petitions, the power of recall