LONDON — The Mother of Parliaments at Westminster is in deep trouble. Housed in its venerable Thames-side palace — an instantly recognized icon of democracy around the world — it is today filled with anxious legislators who feel a mixture of anger, apprehension and bewilderment.
Their anger stems from the feeling that their hard work as lawmakers and their assiduous care for the electors who sent them to Westminster is not appreciated. Instead they have to live with a daily flow of vituperation and criticism for being "out of touch," failing to keep a proper check on government activities and remaining remote from the everyday concerns of the citizenry.
Their apprehension comes from the mounting criticism of the way they are remunerated and, above all, the way they draw allowances and expenses to meet the costs of the life that they, as members of Parliament, must lead. They are expected to be active in Parliament when it is sitting during the week as well as active back in their constituencies at the weekends and when Parliament is in recess.