MARK Oaten is arguing that voters should have a greater say in the Government's day to day running.

The Winchester MP is backing an early day motion in Westminster calling for a Citizens Convention.

Its aim would be to suggest ways to give residents more voice in decision-making and reach out to those who feel excluded by the current system.

Mr Oaten said: "Across the political spectrum it is recognised that there is an urgent need for democratic reform. Democracy is in crisis and bold and brave steps need to be taken to fix it.

"There is consensus across all three major parties that something must be done to break from the past and show the public that politicians can allow the public into the political process.

"That's why I will do all I can to support the Citizens Convention Bill."

Ron Bailey, campaign director at Unlock Democracy, which is backing it, added: "There has been much talk of giving powers to citizens and communities to hold public bodies to account and be involved in the decision-making process.

"We must ensure that this becomes a reality, and so start to regenerate interest in politics."