One of the most depressing facets of politics today is the amount of
cynicism, defeatism and negativity shown by both politicians and the
media. I believe this feeling is shared by many people of different
political persuasions- in a bizarre twist on Labour's 1997 anthem, we
are now singing "Things Can Only Get Worse"
The Lord's Prayer urges us to "do on earth as is done in heaven"-
to have ideals. I am not talking about the failed philosophy of
communism. Such ideals can be found in all political beliefs.
Conservatives claim that building a pleasant society is the
responsibility of the wider community- through personal responsibility,
enterprise and participation- and not the state. This is true.
Liberals believe that civil liberties make the difference between
democracy and tyranny. Also, the  safest societies tend to be the most
liberal ones. This is also true.
Socialists believe that a more equitable society is more morally
justified and cohesive- and as wealth is power, more democratic too.
Again, this is true.
Finally, environmentalists believe that our surroundings- both natural
and man made, at work and in leisure, contribute the most to our
quality of life. Who can argue with this?
What is interesting is that these ideals are not mutually exclusive-
the nicest places to live combine the elements of all four.
For this reason, I have decided to form the Positive Party. The aim of
this is not to stand for election, but to lobby politicians for
"positive" government- that which helps citizens achieve their
potential rather than restricts them. To promote ideas which are
simultaneously fairer, freer, greener and more compassionate. We would
like to award "positive" politicians and media figures- not based
on the outdated concepts of "left and right"-  but on
forward-thinking intelligent ideas and a sense of humanity.
I am seeking members who simply share a desire for a pleasant and
exciting future for mankind in Britain and beyond.

andrewrichardwainwright@hotmail.co.uk