Aims & Experience
Nigel Smith
VoxScot
speaking up for referendums
- advocates IR as one reform of representative democracy
- promotes fair conduct of referendums in the UK
- encourages dialogue between academics & practitioners around the world
- provides a resource for journalists and interested parties
and practicing them
- advises IR campaigns on strategy & organisation
My Experience
I chaired the cross party Yes campaign in the Scottish Devolution referendum in 1997, advised the Yes campaign in the Northern Ireland referendum in 1998 and chaired the UK Euro No campaign from 2002 to 2004. In the latter role, I worked with the Electoral Commission for two years interpreting PPERA (Elections & Referendum Act) in preparation for the Euro referendum and then beyond its indefinite postponement in June 2003 to the conduct of the NE of England Regional Assembly referendum in November 2004.
My interest in referendums began early in 1996 with Tony Blair’s sudden commitment to referendums. Since then I have visited referendums and initatives in many countries including Switzerland, the US notably California and Colorado and several of the EU Accession referendums.
Because of the time I spent on BBC committees, I took a special interest in how broadcasting balance is achieved during referendums talking to experts in UK, Ireland, Switzerland and Denmark. I served on the Wilson Committee reviewing the fairness of the BBC’s coverage of the EU.
Chris Mullin
Not as funny as his previous diary as there is more sadness in several directions. Still his insights of great men with feet of clay and a Westminster that needs reformed ring true and amuse. I recommend it.VoxScot
VOTA Si!In Ecuador just after their 2008 referendum said YES to a new constitution.
After a lifetime in business, I chaired the YES campaign in the 1997 referendum that created the Scottish Parliament an experience that led to other referendums.
More on VoxScot and More on the Site and you can Contact me here.
Sheffield No AV
