glen2glen: "It puts a rather sinister spin on the notion that we elect representatives to speak and act for us, doesn't it?"

glen, i think you hit one of the coffin nails right on the head there.

there's an institution in all political states[countries]known as the 'establishment'. its the status quo default standard yardstick of politics/politicians.

i've experience of a local[to me]labour councillor who served his congregation well & fairly to the best of his ability- a thoroughly decent chap. he stood as mp one year & was elected to parliament.

there[its reported],he came up against the national 'party line' & also the very powerful 'establishment'. he wasn't able to input the same kind of help to his electors as before[doesn't mean he was weak]because of the constant barriers set up by these all powerful groups.after much effort in mustering like minded support of fellow mps of all political shades, the poor man had a breakdown & had to retire his career. he returned to the local scene & after convalescence, returned to continue to uphold the interests of the people, albeit in a part time role, as a city councillor.

a conclusion,its not just politicians to blame for the shitty state/condition most world citizens find themselves in, there's other variables to consider.

your thoughts/comments?