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Simpol-UK Press Release

1st September 2004

Cambridge MP signs pledge of support in
principle for new democratic movement

(This press release prompted coverage on local radio and in the local newspaper)
Anne Campbell, Labour MP for Cambridge since 1992, has signed a pledge of support in principle for the Simultaneous Policy (SP) at the invitation of Cambridge SP Adopters' Group (CAMSPAG). The Simultaneous Policy is a package of measures to address global problems such as climate change, unsustainability and unfair trade and is being developed by SP Adopters around the world as an alternative to policies set behind closed doors, where economic interests come before human rights and the environment. The politicians' pledge is to implement the Simultaneous Policy alongside other governments when all, or sufficient, other governments have also pledged to do so. Simultaneous implementation removes the fear of first-mover disadvantage and the loss of investment and jobs.

Anne Campbell MP said:

'There are a number of pressing social and environmental issues on which we can only make progress if there is international co-operation. Often a government will not agree to implement a policy which would benefit the planet, such as a tax on aviation fuel, because that country would then be disadvantaged economically. If all politicians agreed to implement such policies if everyone else does, then this would enable many desirable outcomes and would benefit us all. I am signing up to the Simultaneous Policy pledge because I think it is a good idea in principle. If policies are adopted by the group in future, with which I do not agree then I would have to withdraw my support.'

Becoming an SP Adopter is free (see the website www.simpol.org.uk) and involves an undertaking to vote at elections for any candidate, within reason, who signs the SP pledge. Adopters with a party preference undertake to encourage their preferred party to support SP. In Cambridge, Adopters have held public meetings on possible policies for inclusion in the policy package on the themes of "Making all trade Fair Trade", "Achieving sustainable energy use" and "Food security for all". The policy package will be finalised as the implementation phase is approached for governments to then implement, in its entirety, with the consent of their citizens. As with the politicians' pledge, Adoption is provisional as the policy content is a work in progress.

Mike Brady, Coordinator of CAMSPAG said:

"I am delighted that Anne has signed the pledge form and hope she will encourage her colleagues in Parliament to do the same to bring the implementation phase closer. The SP voting strategy aims to make support for SP a vote-winning, and ultimately an election-winning, issue to make support for SP government policy as soon as possible. Candidates from all parties are encouraged to sign the pledge to build cross-party support."

During the European Parliament election, Rosalind Gill, a LibDem candidate in the Eastern region, signed the SP pledge. Green party candidates in other regions also signed and one, Caroline Lucas, was elected.

For further information contact Mike Brady on 07986 736179.

Notes:

  1. It is not yet possible to present what the Simultaneous Policy package will contain as the process of development is at an early stage. As greater numbers become involved in the campaign the primary issues to be addressed will emerge through policy fora held around the world under the guidance of National and Global Policy Boards. The Simultaneous Policy package will be put forward for approval by the people of all countries prior to implementation.

  2. The UK Simultaneous Policy Organistion (Simpol-UK) was incorporated on 22 March this year and SP Adopters around the country are beginning to form local groups. The Founding Declaration for Simpol-UK (click here) provides additional information. Adopters in other countries are also active and network through the International Simultaneous Policy Organisation (ISPO) - see http://www.simpol.org/

  3. SP's starting point is that we live in pseudo-democracies because governments are limited in the action they can take as they fear disinvestment and loss of jobs if they introduce policies which are distasteful to transnational corporations and financial markets. Human rights and the environment take second place to what is best for 'the economy' and voters become increasingly apathetic, it is argued. SP puts 'we, the people' in charge of deciding the global rules which shape our world and the campaign strategy compels politicians to implement that package of policies when all, or sufficient, other governments have also pledged to do so. Simultaneous implementation removes the threat of disinvestment.

  4. Endorsements for the SP strategy can be found on the website http://www.simpol.org/ In April it was announced that Jose Ramos-Horta:
    Foreign Minister, East Timor and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, 1996, had given his support, stating: "I am pleased to confirm to you my interest in endorsing the SP campaign and to be as active in its support as I can."