TODAY may become a memorable date in the history of democracy in this city.
Because the Birmingham Mail has launched a formal petition, demanding that the council holds a binding public referendum on an elected mayor.
We believe that the voters of Birmingham have the right to decide whether or not they would like this new system of government.
In every poll held so far on this subject, from as far back as 2001 to the last few weeks, people have indicated a strong interest in making this decision.
Indeed, six years ago, the majority of voters taking part in a "consultative referendum" said they wanted an elected mayor of some description rather than the current leader and cabinet system.
This year alone, a number of polls of readers and others held by a variety of different organisations have come out in favour of a new, binding referendum.
And many public figures – from Tory leader David Cameron to business and community leaders across this city – have also clearly stated that the electorate should have the final say.
But the councillors who currently run this city disagree. They feel that only they should decide on elected mayors.
The Birmingham Mail is therefore giving people the legal chance to have their say by launching a petition.
A binding referendum will have to be held if there is sufficient public support behind this petition.
So make your views known now by deciding whether or not to sign the petition you will find on Page 4-5 today.
If enough people sign up, this will result in a binding referendum that will allow the people of this city to decide.
If not then it can only be deduced that the public are happy with the structure of local government that currently exists.
Don’t miss this opportunity. It is finally the time for the people of Birmingham to really decide.
Comments (11)
Nice one Birmingham Mail!
I've bought a first edition today and I'll be getting my family and neighbours to sign.
This is a huge change and the people of Brum should decide.
Posted by Colin Peel | March 13, 2007 12:50 PM
Posted on March 13, 2007 12:50
Dear Sir,
If the Evening Mail is so keen on holding a referendum, despite their own phone polls showing that people do not want an elected mayor, then let the Evening Mail pay for it.
Colin.
Posted by Colin | March 13, 2007 1:45 PM
Posted on March 13, 2007 13:45
Rubbish - this council wastes enough of our money, it's about time they spent it on the people rather than comfier chairs for their offices.
Posted by Tricky Ricky | March 14, 2007 10:20 AM
Posted on March 14, 2007 10:20
What a lot of rubbish - The Council with its Leaders are quite able to continue looking after the City with a Non Political Lord Mayor as a figurehead - An elected Mayor would be a very expensive disaster - Peter
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