Why We Get the Wrong Politicians

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Isabel Hardman is a political journalist who graduated with a first-class degree in English Literature from the University of Exeter. In 2014, GQ listed her as one of the 100 most connected women in the UK and, in 2015, she was awarded Journalist of the Year by the Political Studies Association.

Britain’s political system undermines effective lawmaking, fostering a culture where MPs prioritize personal ambition over legislative scrutiny, often aspiring to ministerial roles for status and influence. This imbalance, coupled with a lack of incentives for dedicated legislators, weakens Parliament’s effectiveness, as seen in the 2014 reshuffle that sidelined experienced ministers. Structural reforms, such as separating legislative and executive roles, democratizing candidate selection, and holding MPs publicly accountable, could address these issues. Additionally, reshaping Parliament’s culture by rewarding legislative focus and providing formal training for MPs is essential. Despite widespread disdain for politicians, their challenges—ranging from navigating an unstructured environment to mental health struggles and public harassment—highlight the demanding nature of their roles. The flawed candidate selection process and the rise of yes-men further exacerbate systemic issues, as demonstrated by the poorly executed "bedroom tax." While select committees offer a rare example of effective scrutiny, the broader legislative process is hindered by party loyalty and the whipping system, which stifles independent thought. MPs’ focus on constituency work, though valuable, often addresses problems caused by inadequate laws, underscoring the need for systemic reform to strengthen both governance and public trust.

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