Can’t we all just get along?

With the next round of local elections almost upon us it’s worth reflecting on this time a year ago when Brexit dominated everyone’s thoughts, and affected the voting decisions of many Peterborough residents.

Brexit was still an issue in December, when an unexpected and unseasonal General Election was called in an attempt to settle the matter and restore stability.

Sadly, a defining feature of both elections was the often rancorous and combatant behaviour of some candidates and their supporters. This type of behaviour (and worse) are a mainstay of social media where, regretfully, very public humiliation has become the currency of commentators across the political spectrum.

Political ‘trolling’ seems disproportionately aimed at female politicians. I asked Julie Howell, Green Group Leader on Peterborough City Council whether online trolling impedes her ability as a councillor. Julie has been using social media since the mid-1990s (long before the term ‘social media’ was commonplace). Julie says “zero tolerance” is the only way to handle online trolling and she resorts to liberal use of the ‘mute’, ‘block’ and ‘report’ functions that social media platforms provide.

Public meetings in our own council chamber are notoriously ill-tempered, despite a lot of good cross-party work behind the scenes and on committees.

Rolling news and social media now guarantee the public see the worst side of politics and politicians. I have heard that local parties now struggle to find candidates with prospects, citing the behaviour of councillors in the chamber and online as ‘off-putting’.

There will always be some who enjoy the cut and thrust of modern politics, but for many, knowing they could be sworn at, threatened or shown the middle finger (as has been reported) is enough to put them off local politics altogether.

Can’t we do better than this?

Most people, whether leavers or remainers, whether blue, green, yellow or red, want much the same for themselves and their families: a city that thrives and to live in prosperity and peace. So, isn’t it time for politicians at all levels and on all sides to appreciate how their conduct can affect the people they serve?

Wouldn’t it be great if they would forget their petty differences, refrain from theatrical posturing and make their points with robust argument but without getting too personal?

Or do we, the public, enjoying watching councillors tearing into one another, rather than focusing on their duty: to do their very best for Peterborough.

A better standard of behaviour in the council chamber will surely lead to a better perception of those elected to serve us. Furthermore, it would attract more local people into politics.

I was under the impression that sensitivity was an essential quality for a ward councillor, but what use is sensitivity given the atmosphere in the council chamber is frequently hostile?

With the next local council elections on 7 th May, here’s our chance to elect a new wave of councillors who, despite obvious differences of opinion, can get along for the sake of our marvellous city.