With a General Election looming, the next few weeks could define the future of our country. Our democracy is at great risk at a time of such public discontent in politics.

While MPs fiddle expenses and are far from a clear reflection of modern British society, it’s no wonder we’ve become so disillusioned with the people that run our lives. However, we must remember that these MPs are our democratically elected representatives, and our employees, and we hold the right and the duty to hold them to account.

It may be tempting to turn our backs on politics and hope for the best. However, if we wish to realistically hope for the best, turning our backs is the single worst thing we can do.

Yet the mood for change is clear. The national grassroots campaign for democratic reform, Power 2010 (www.power2010.org.uk), has opened up a fantastic opportunity for people to make a difference. In just two visits to the streets of Brighton, the campaign has gathered the support of around 800 people. Gordon Brown has recently hinted that he would favour a system of proportional representation; a reform supported by Power 2010 and a move that would make Parliament more representative of British society. Perhaps this is proof that public support for democratic reform really will make our politicians listen. When enough people stand up and make themselves heard, change can become a reality. Now is the time for change.

J Dangerfield
Lansdowne Street, Hove