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<h2>WOTE founders made the UK and European internet happen in the 1980s - we will make WOTE happen</h2><p class="large">This testimonial piece was researched and written by the AI engine at Google BARD - and presented on this AI website creation platform from durable.co. AI can now replace many pen pushers and keyboard tappers to save money and provide better service.</p><p class="large">Coping with the AI challenge will be very much in focus at the time of the next General Election, and barely any of the present mostly techno illiterate occupants of Westminster barely have a clue what it means. They are too easily bamboozled by "advisers" and vested interests. Remember the wasted Covid billions...<br><strong><br>Peter Dawe</strong>&nbsp;played a key role in founding the commercial internet in the UK and Europe. In 1986, he founded&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unipalm" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Unipalm">Unipalm</a>, a company that provided networking services to businesses.</p><p class="large">In 1988, Unipalm launched&nbsp;<strong>Pipex</strong>, (<strong>P</strong>ublic&nbsp;<strong>IP E</strong>xhange) the UK's first commercial internet service provider (ISP). Pipex quickly became one of the most popular ISPs in the UK, and it helped to introduce the internet to businesses and consumers across the country. Dawe was also a co-founder of the Internet Service Providers' Association (ISPA), which is a trade association for ISPs in the UK.</p><p class="large">The ISPA has played a major role in promoting the growth of the internet in the UK, and it has also helped to protect the interests of consumers and businesses. In 1995, Dawe founded the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), a non-profit organization that combats child sexual abuse content on the internet. The IWF is the UK's leading authority on child sexual abuse content, and it works with ISPs, law enforcement agencies, and other organizations to remove this content from the internet.</p><p class="large">Dawe has been awarded numerous accolades for his work in the internet industry, including an OBE from the Queen in 2001. He is a true pioneer of the internet, and his work has had a major impact on the way we live and work today. Dawe founded Unipalm, the UK's first commercial internet service provider (ISP). He co-founded the Internet Service Providers' Association (ISPA), a trade association for ISPs in the UK.</p><p class="large">He founded the Internet Watch Foundation (IWF), a non-profit organization that combats child sexual abuse content on the internet. Dawe helped to promote the growth of the internet in the UK and Europe - he helped to protect the interests of consumers and businesses on the internet. Dawe's work has had a major impact on the way we live and work today. The internet has become an essential part of our lives, and it is hard to imagine a world without it. Dawe's work helped to make the internet a reality, and he is a true pioneer of this technology.</p>

WOTE founders made the UK and European internet happen in the 1980s - we will make WOTE happen

<p>It is a view, widely held in the UK, that those in power are not working in the interests of the general population. This view is now so strongly held, that many people are predicting or even demanding a “Revolution”. The Will of the Electorate Association (WOTE.uk) believes it has a vision for how they can be replaced, peacefully and perhaps more importantly not replaced with something the same or worse.</p><p>The method is simple.</p><p>To field a candidate MP in all 650 constituencies at the next general election.</p><p>In order to ensure we do not replace politicians with politician, every WOTE candidate is required to sign a pledge that they will implement the Will of the Electorate even if it conflicts with their personal view. This pledge also enable candidates from even compass point of political opinion and thought to rally to the cause of removing the current structure. Candidates can be Blue, Red, Green, Purple, Black, Brown or Yellow! They are free to express and argue to the electorate their view, but once the electorate have expressed their view, the MP is honour bound to implement the Electorates view as efficiently, effectively and rapidly as possible, within the resources available.</p><p>Offering every voter the opportunity to vote for a true representative, rather than the choice of dogmatic party MPs, would transform the election, from a beauty contest of who has the least worse proposals, to one which allows them to not only remove the cancer, but to replace it with a better system. At the very least this can be seen as a “None-of-the above” option on the ballot paper</p><p>Discovering the Will of the Electorate, will require thought and testing. First the Electorate must have access to whatever FACTS there are available on a matter.</p><p>Second, Those with views on how these facts can be translated into policy must argue their case to the electorate. There will be a need to ensure there is no abuse of the truth here.</p><p>Third, The electorate must be offered alternatives which are implementable. i.e. The costs and negative impacts must be included for the alternatives, as well as the benefits.</p><p>Finally, The view of the electorate has to be taken. This may be by referendum, which is now economically feasible with very nearly everyone with a secure and personal ID’s mobile phone. However, other techniques, such as focus groups and longitudinal studies may be used.</p><p>While the Will of the Electorate is being sought, The new government will be tasked to deliver the basic government services of security, justice and public goods that were the unfulfilled “promises” of the discredited. They will also seek to remove any “laws” that prevent these being delivered efficiently and effectively. In particular removing any laws that favour historically powerful.</p><p>While WOTE does not have any policies, as a party we can offer policy areas for debate, and encourage novel approaches to delivering these services. For instance, a debate on equalising those who enjoyed free university education at the same level as those who have had to pay their own fees and maintenance.<br></p>

A Velvet Revolution

<h2>Introduction</h2><p>Westminster, the heart of British politics, is often regarded with skepticism and mistrust by the public. Despite being the home of the UK Parliament and the symbol of democracy, many people have lost faith in the system. In this blog post, we will explore some of the reasons why trust in Westminster has diminished over time.</p><h3>Lack of Transparency</h3><p>One of the main reasons why people don't trust Westminster is the perceived lack of transparency. The decision-making process and the inner workings of the government often seem shrouded in secrecy. Important decisions are made behind closed doors, leaving the public feeling disconnected and excluded from the democratic process.</p><figure id="figure-x4j1878ll4lmkxbygg"><img id="x4j1878ll4lmkxbygg" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1691436892224-dc28ca3c45ca?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHxsYWNrJTIwb2YlMjB0cmFuc3BhcmVuY3l8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjk0ODAxOTgxfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="lack of transparency" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1691436892224-dc28ca3c45ca?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHxsYWNrJTIwb2YlMjB0cmFuc3BhcmVuY3l8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjk0ODAxOTgxfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Political Scandals</h3><p>Over the years, Westminster has been plagued by numerous political scandals that have eroded public trust. From expenses scandals to allegations of corruption, these incidents have created a perception that politicians are more interested in personal gain than serving the public. Such scandals have further fueled the skepticism and cynicism towards the political system.</p><h3>Broken Promises</h3><p>Politicians are notorious for making grand promises during election campaigns, only to backtrack or fail to deliver once in power. This pattern of broken promises has left many feeling disillusioned and skeptical of the integrity of politicians. The repeated failure to fulfill pledges has contributed to the erosion of trust in Westminster.</p><figure id="figure-djpeez8edplmkxbzum"><img id="djpeez8edplmkxbzum" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1473889803946-6a3923603697?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMHx8YnJva2VuJTIwcHJvbWlzZXN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjk0ODAxOTgzfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="broken promises" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1473889803946-6a3923603697?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMHx8YnJva2VuJTIwcHJvbWlzZXN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjk0ODAxOTgzfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Perceived Elitism</h3><p>Westminster is often seen as an exclusive club for the political elite. The perceived disconnect between politicians and the everyday concerns of the public has led to a sense of alienation. Many people believe that politicians are out of touch with the realities of ordinary citizens, further eroding trust in the system.</p><h3>Party Loyalty over Public Interest</h3><p>Party loyalty often takes precedence over the public interest in Westminster. Politicians are expected to toe the party line and vote along party lines, even if it goes against their personal beliefs or the interests of their constituents. This perceived lack of independence and the prioritization of party politics over the welfare of the nation has contributed to the erosion of trust in the system.</p><figure id="figure-7847itlpylmkxc1fs"><img id="7847itlpylmkxc1fs" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1552345387-b54624b477d7?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxwYXJ0eSUyMGxveWFsdHl8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjk0ODAxOTg1fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="party loyalty" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1552345387-b54624b477d7?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxwYXJ0eSUyMGxveWFsdHl8ZW58MHx8fHwxNjk0ODAxOTg1fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Media Influence</h3><p>The influence of the media on public perception of Westminster cannot be underestimated. Media coverage, often focusing on scandals and controversies, can shape public opinion and contribute to the mistrust towards the political system. Sensationalized reporting and biased narratives can further fuel skepticism and undermine trust in Westminster.</p><h3>Lack of Diversity</h3><p>Westminster has long been criticized for its lack of diversity, both in terms of gender and ethnicity. The underrepresentation of certain groups can lead to a sense of exclusion and a lack of trust in the system's ability to represent the interests of all citizens. Efforts to increase diversity and inclusivity within Westminster are crucial to rebuilding trust.</p><figure id="figure-abbdtuhp4lmkxc34n"><img id="abbdtuhp4lmkxc34n" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1573164713619-24c711fe7878?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMHx8bGFjayUyMG9mJTIwZGl2ZXJzaXR5fGVufDB8fHx8MTY5NDgwMTk4N3ww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="lack of diversity" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1573164713619-24c711fe7878?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMHx8bGFjayUyMG9mJTIwZGl2ZXJzaXR5fGVufDB8fHx8MTY5NDgwMTk4N3ww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Lack of Accountability</h3><p>Another reason why trust in Westminster is lacking is the perceived lack of accountability. Politicians are often seen as avoiding responsibility for their actions, with little consequence for their mistakes or misconduct. This lack of accountability breeds mistrust and undermines faith in the system's ability to hold politicians to account.</p><h2>Conclusion</h2><p>The erosion of trust in Westminster is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors. The lack of transparency, political scandals, broken promises, perceived elitism, party loyalty, media influence, lack of diversity, and lack of accountability all play a role in shaping public perception. Rebuilding trust will require meaningful reforms, increased transparency, and a commitment to serving the public interest above all else.</p>

Why don't we trust Westminster..?

<h2>Understanding the Basics of Parliament and Democracy</h2><p>Parliament and democracy are fundamental pillars of modern governance. They provide citizens with a voice, enable decision-making processes, and ensure accountability of those in power. However, it's essential to revisit the basics of parliament and democracy to fully comprehend their significance in our society.</p><figure id="figure-swzim26whgll17w62b"><iframe id="swzim26whgll17w62b" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AEhNUYYFAr0" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="" data-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AEhNUYYFAr0" data-corners="small"></iframe></figure><p><br></p><h3>What is Parliament?</h3><p>Parliament is a legislative body that represents the citizens of a country. It serves as a forum for debate, lawmaking, and oversight of the government. In a parliamentary system, the parliament is typically composed of elected representatives who represent different political parties.</p><figure id="figure-bk32klbptll0v449y"><img id="bk32klbptll0v449y" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1607778102335-c73537de90c6?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxNHx8cGFybGlhbWVudCUyMGRlbW9jcmFjeXxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTE0MTIxNTJ8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="parliament democracy" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1607778102335-c73537de90c6?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxNHx8cGFybGlhbWVudCUyMGRlbW9jcmFjeXxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTE0MTIxNTJ8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Key Functions of Parliament</h3><p>Parliament performs several critical functions in a democratic society:</p><ul><li>Lawmaking: Parliament is responsible for creating, amending, and repealing laws that govern the country.</li><li>Representation: Members of parliament represent the interests and concerns of their constituents, ensuring that diverse voices are heard.</li><li>Accountability: Parliament holds the government accountable for its actions, decisions, and policies.</li><li>Debate and Discussion: It provides a platform for open and constructive debates on various issues affecting the nation.</li><li>Oversight: Parliament scrutinizes the government's activities, ensuring transparency and preventing abuse of power.</li></ul><h3>Democracy: The Power of the People</h3><p>Democracy, derived from the Greek words "demos" (people) and "kratos" (rule), is a system of government where power lies with the people. It allows citizens to participate in decision-making processes and elect their representatives.</p><figure id="figure-g4zdqgjt9pll0v4b3b"><img id="g4zdqgjt9pll0v4b3b" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1572215242192-af38e004485f?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyNnx8ZGVtb2NyYWN5JTIwZ292ZXJubWVudHxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTE0MTIxNjF8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="democracy government" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1572215242192-af38e004485f?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyNnx8ZGVtb2NyYWN5JTIwZ292ZXJubWVudHxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTE0MTIxNjF8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Key Principles of Democracy</h3><p>Democracy is built on several core principles:</p><ol><li>Popular Sovereignty: The ultimate authority rests with the people, who exercise their power through voting and participation.</li><li>Political Equality: All citizens have equal rights and opportunities to participate in the political process.</li><li>Majority Rule, Minority Rights: Decisions are made by the majority, but the rights of minorities are protected.</li><li>Rule of Law: Laws apply equally to all individuals, including those in positions of power.</li><li>Free and Fair Elections: Elections are conducted impartially, allowing citizens to choose their representatives freely.</li></ol><h3>The Interplay Between Parliament and Democracy</h3><p>Parliament and democracy are interconnected, with parliament being a vital institution within a democratic system. Parliament ensures that the principles of democracy are upheld by creating laws, representing citizens, and holding the government accountable.</p><figure id="figure-hqv2p43b7rll0v4hgq"><img id="hqv2p43b7rll0v4hgq" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1560977491-82eed12e1635?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxNXx8cGFybGlhbWVudCUyMGRlbW9jcmFjeSUyMHJlbGF0aW9uc2hpcHxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTE0MTIxNjl8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="parliament democracy relationship" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1560977491-82eed12e1635?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxNXx8cGFybGlhbWVudCUyMGRlbW9jcmFjeSUyMHJlbGF0aW9uc2hpcHxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTE0MTIxNjl8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>The Importance of Understanding Parliament and Democracy</h3><p>Understanding the basics of parliament and democracy is crucial for every citizen. It empowers individuals to actively participate in the political process, make informed decisions, and hold their elected representatives accountable.</p><p>By familiarizing ourselves with these concepts, we can contribute to the improvement of our society, advocate for change, and safeguard the principles that underpin our democratic system.</p><figure id="figure-7suujx82id8ll0v4kh1"><img id="7suujx82id8ll0v4kh1" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1532509618208-0c9fda487dfe?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyNXx8ZGVtb2NyYWN5JTIwcGFydGljaXBhdGlvbnxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTE0MTIxNzN8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="democracy participation" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1532509618208-0c9fda487dfe?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyNXx8ZGVtb2NyYWN5JTIwcGFydGljaXBhdGlvbnxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTE0MTIxNzN8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><p>Let us embrace our roles as informed citizens and engage in the democratic process to shape a better future for <strong>all.</strong></p>

WOTE.uk

Blog: the Revolution starts here...

WOTE founders made the UK and European internet happen in...

A Velvet Revolution

Why don't we trust Westminster..?

Back to the basics of parliament and democracy