Trust in MPs hits new low

Thursday, 15 September 2011 10:03 AM

By Ian Dunt Follow @IanDunt

The public's confidence in MPs has reached a new low, bottoming out at just 26%.

New data published by the Committee for Standards in Public Life found a 20% drop in confidence since 2008, as expenses and phone-hacking hammered the reputation of the British establishment.

"The revelations about MPs' expenses in 2009 have clearly exacerbated the long-term trend of increasingly negative views about politicians," commented chairman Sir Christopher Kelly.

"Public trust is hard won – and easily lost. There is a great deal of work to do to restore the reputation of our elected representatives."

The proportion of people who believed most MPs are competent also fell, from 36% to 26%.

Those who rated standards in public life as high fell by ten per cent, from 40% to 30%.

Just 14% think MPs are in touch with public concerns.

"Previous surveys have shown that public confidence in those holding public office has been on a long-term decline since 2004. The 2010 results suggest that the rate of decline may have increased," Sir Christopher concluded.

"I am struck by the common themes that run through many of the issues we see. High ethical standards do not just happen. They require leadership and the development of a strong ethical culture in which people understand what is expected of them.

"Overwhelmingly, the scandals we have seen in recent years could have been prevented."

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