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The Constitution UnitAuthor: The Constitution Unit
The Constitution Unit conducts timely, rigorous, independent research into constitutional change and the reform of political institutions. Our research has significant real-world impact, informing policy-makers engaged in such changes - both in the United Kingdom and around the world. On this channel, you will find the audio recordings of the Constitution Unit's past events. Language: en Genres: Government, News Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Can the House of Commons handle multi-party politics?
Episode 101
Monday, 19 January, 2026
The 2024 election delivered an unusually fragmented opposition; almost half the non-government seats in the House of Commons were won by parties other than the Conservative 'Official Opposition'. Given current polling, the next general election is unlikely to see a return to simple 'two-party' politics.In that context, does the Commons need to change its culture, practices, or procedures to better reflect an era of more fragmented politics? What particular challenges face smaller parties in the Commons? How can they maximise their impact? We discussed these questions with the Green Party's Westminster leader, a former senior Commons official, and an academic expert. Speakers:Dr Ellie Chowns MP – Green Party Westminster Leader and MP for North HerefordshirePaul Evans – former House of Commons clerkDr Louise Thompson – Senior Lecturer in Politics, University of Manchester Chair: Professor Meg Russell – Director of the Constitution Unit Links:Website: www.ucl.ac.uk/constitution-unitMailing list: www.ucl.ac.uk/constitution-unit/get-involved/mailing-listBlog: constitution-unit.com
