Why Vote?: A Guide for Those Who Can't be Bothered

The turn-out in elections since the end of the Second World War plunged from 80 per cent to 60 per cent and is expected to fall even lower in the wake of the scandal of MPs' expenses and allowances. Politicians and commentators claim that voters are not just disenchanted but apathetic. Why Vote? argues that people today are far from apathetic - in fact, they care passionately about a wide range of issues. The problem is making them see the relevance of the political process to their lives. Instead of preaching, though, this witty and irreverent book deals with politics with humour. It takes readers back to first principles, including a hilarious run through many of Parliament's ludicrous out-dated traditions. But despite its light-hearted approach and the exposure of many good reasons why no rational person would want to turn out on election day, Why Vote? tackles the crucial issue of the importance of each individual playing their part in the democratic process. It is an essential guide on the eve of probably the most absorbing and critical General Election for years.