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International Day of Democracy
16 September 2025
Lead MP
Rachel Blake
Cities of London and Westminster
Lab/Co-op
Responding Minister
Chris Elmore
Tags
Democracy & ElectionsForeign Affairs
Word Count: 13654
Other Contributors: 18
At a Glance
Rachel Blake raised concerns about international day of democracy in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
The lead MP asks for a stronger, wider, and deeper democracy that tolerates diverse views expressed peacefully and democratically. She also calls for preserving fundamental British values and upholding the European convention on human rights.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The International Day of Democracy has not been marked by this House since 2017. This period saw Parliament unlawfully prorogued, restrictions on voting and freedom of protest, and a Prime Minister breaking lockdown rules. Globally, democracy declined for six consecutive years with 60 countries experiencing deterioration in political rights and liberties while only 34 secured improvements. In the UK, there are increasing radicalizations to far-left and far-right politics, posing threats to democratic values.
Andrew Lewin
Lab
Welwyn Hatfield
Discussed the need for civility in Parliament, condemned Elon Musk's comments, and highlighted the importance of defending democracy. Emphasised the significance of respectful debates for democratic progress.
Jeevun Sandher
Lab
Loughborough
Discusses the division in the nation caused by economics, geography and online presence. Emphasises the need for a policy answer to provide good jobs and end loneliness, and a political answer based on unity, decency and determination.
Sandher
Con
Loughborough
Discussed how investment in social contracts can help overcome societal divisions.
Focused on the role of women in politics.
Lewes
Speaks about the crisis in democracy and the importance of respecting democratic freedoms. Mentions Georgia's situation where EU accession talks were suspended and protests are ongoing. Highlighted the vital role of international support for democratic contributions and values.
James Naish
LD
Great Yarmouth
The MP agrees that the local level is where we see democracy work well with councillors representing communities. He supports empowering local councillors to deliver for their communities. Asked if the hon. Member agreed that banning journalists from attending meetings is avoiding accountability. Stressed the importance of local community contributions to democracy.
Jim Allister
TUV
North Antrim
Talked about the Windsor framework's implications for democracy.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Stressed the importance of democracy, morality, and standing up against political violence. Paid tribute to free speech and its importance in democratic societies.
John Slinger
Con
Cities of London and Westminster
Emphasised the importance of respecting others' opinions in Parliament. Argued for the necessity of nurturing democracy.
Dwyfor Meirionnydd
The MP highlights concerns about Elon Musk's justification for division and violence, emphasising the need to counter rising authoritarianism. She discusses the impact of austerity on public services and mentions the importance of institutions like the Westminster Foundation for Democracy in strengthening democracy. Agreed with the concerns about UK democracy, highlighting the potential for enhanced global presence by supporting democratic allies. Addressed the rise of disinformation and authoritarianism.
Lizzi Collinge
Lab
Morecambe and Lunesdale
Referenced Orwellian thought regarding Elon Musk's actions and questioned his interpretation of George Orwell’s work. Questions whether some statements made by Charlie Kirk could have made others feel threatened and unsafe to express their views freely. Called for a national commission on electoral reform to examine all options impartially, noting the need for more proportionate voting systems that still allow for constituency representation. Discussed electoral reform in detail.
Campbell
UUP
East Londonderry
Emphasised the importance of free speech in democracy.
Gregory Campbell
DUP
East Londonderry
Welcomes the point made by Rachel Blake that democracy needs to be strong enough to tolerate views we may fundamentally disagree with, as long as they are expressed peacefully and democratically. Highlights the concerning aftermath of Charlie Kirk's murder, where some justified his death, emphasizing the need for caution in the context of such violent acts.
Morrison
Lab
Cheadle
Highlighted the values of democracy and their importance.
Swindon North
Supported increasing the aid budget to strengthen democratic allies and praised the work of Westminster Foundation for Democracy in supporting democratic nations.
Tom Morrison
LD
Cheadle
Highlighted the decline in global freedom levels and the importance of standing up against violence in support of democracy.
Phil Brickell
Lab
Bolton West
He agrees with stricter enforcement required on the revolving door between Governments and the private sector due to recent reporting on former PM Boris Johnson's commercial activities. Discussed lobbying rules and the risks associated with revolving doors.
Richard Foord
Con
Honiton and Sidmouth
Suggests considering the alternative ways in which we can conduct our democracy such as replacing first past the post with proportional representation to address under-representation by smaller political parties. Talked about electoral reform and its significance for democratic processes.
Government Response
Chris Elmore
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs
Government Response
Thanked Andrew Rosindell for his remarks about the appointment and acknowledged Britain's role in promoting democracy internationally. We continue to call on Hong Kong authorities to release Jimmy Lai, and we are working with partners at home and abroad to strengthen democratic principles. The Government have taken steps such as giving 16-year-olds the right to vote, introducing tougher rules on political donations, empowering local leaders and mayors in England, protecting ourselves from overseas threats through the defending democracy taskforce, and supporting elections and Parliaments in over 30 countries.
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.