Talking to People Involved in Politic... Alan Rodger of The Conservatives   We posed a series of questions to all the parties with candidates standing in the 2001 General Election. Here's what Alan Rodger of Conservatives had to say.
Do you think Conservative Politics has as much appeal to today's youth as it did a few years ago? "Yes, the Conservative Party has always attracted individuals who believe in freedom, enterprise and personal responsibility. These beliefs are reflected in the broad appeal that our Party has, hopefully in the years to come more younger people will be attracted to these core values that our Party stands for."  Do you really think it is a good example for young people for their MSP's to keep getting arrested?
"None of our MSP’s have been arrested so it is no possible for me to comment on this." Would you recommend going to jail for your beliefs? "As a Party we believe in freedom of speech, it is not therefore - in a democracy - appropriate for individuals to be sent to jail for their political beliefs."  Do you think the blandness amongst the political parties has caused apathy amongst our generation towards politics and politicians?
"I don't think there is a direct correlation but the Presidential style of this current government is making it increasing difficult for the Executive to be held to account. This may have a bearing on how interesting British politics is to the observer and may adversely influence how younger people, in particular, view their place in our democracy."
Do you think the Scottish Parliament has really achieved much?
"The Scottish Executive has achieved little since the Parliament's establishment in 1999. Waiting lists in Scottish hospitals are longer than in 1997, taxes have increased by stealth, and the costs of the Parliament building have spiralled out of control. Scottish people have perhaps become rather apathetic in their views of the Scottish Parliament to date - responsibility for this must lie at the door of the Scottish Executive."  Why should young people get involved in politics?
"Young people should be involved in politics because it is essential for our democracy. If younger people do not engage in the political process then issues that are particularly important to younger people may be sidelined in the political process." Read: The above applies to the political process in the United Kingdom and follows the laws of the UK.
- The Pupiline Team
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