Getting Elected As An MP

The Journey to Becoming an MP in Britain

Introduction

For a democracy to flourish, it's pivotal that any citizen, irrespective of their socio-economic status, has the potential to be elected. Historically, in Britain, several barriers hindered this inclusivity, with only the affluent having a realistic chance to become an MP.

Property Qualification - A Barrier to Entry:

• Pre-1858: Only landowners, who derived an income from their land, could aspire to become MPs.
• 1858's Shift: The Property Qualification for Members of Parliament Act eradicated this restriction, marking a significant democratic reform.
• Glover's Dilemma: Edward Glover's election as an MP, subsequent removal, and imprisonment spotlighted the controversial property rule. Rumours even suggested that half the MPs might have misrepresented their property status.

Campaign Expenditures - The Financial Impediment:

• Corrupt and Illegal Practices Act (1883): Regulated electoral spending. The cap was set at £710 for every 2000 voters, with an added £40 for every succeeding 1000 voters. Moreover, expenditure on food and alcohol was prohibited.

A Move Towards Inclusivity:

• Paid MPs (1911): The 1911 Parliament Act instituted a yearly salary of £400 for MPs. This, being higher than the average wage, ensured that anyone, regardless of their financial status, could potentially serve as an MP.
• Secret Ballots (1872): The ushering of secret ballots ensured voters had the freedom to vote without undue influence, allowing more working-class representatives to be elected.

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Getting Elected As An MP

Women in Politics:

• Qualification of Women Act (1918): Women aged 21+ were now eligible to stand for elections. Nancy Astor became the first female MP to assume her seat, but the accolade of the first elected woman goes to Constance Markievicz.
• An ironic twist was that women, despite being eligible to contest elections from the age of 21, couldn't vote until they were 30+. This discrepancy persisted until 1928.

Persisting Challenges:

• Despite progressive reforms, the financial strain of election campaigns (often running into thousands of pounds) still acted as a deterrent for many. Furthermore, the major political parties usually favoured candidates from wealthier backgrounds.

Conclusion

Over the years, Britain has steadily worked towards making the path to becoming an MP more democratic and accessible. However, the journey wasn't without its challenges, and the quest for a fully inclusive democratic process continues.