Four models of political representation: British MPs and the use of ICT

Norton, Philip

Abstract

This paper tests four models of political representation in the UK Parliament: the traditional, party, representative and tribune. Each involves a different usage of the Internet in order to fulfil a particular role. A rational choice approach emphasises the utility of the party model, utilising information and communication technologies to reinforce existing patterns within the political system. An empirical study suggests that the party model is the most applicable to the UK Parliament. Few MPs utilise the Internet in a way consistent with the other three models. If innovative use is to be made of the Internet, it may be at the institutional level rather than at the level of the individual MP. © 2007, Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.

Citation

Norton, P. (2007). Four models of political representation: British MPs and the use of ICT. Journal of Legislative Studies, 13(3), 354-369. https://doi.org/10.1080/13572330701500771

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Sep 1, 2007
• Online Publication Date: Jun 5, 2008
• Publication Date: 2007-09
• Journal: Journal of Legislative Studies
• Print ISSN: 1357-2334
• Electronic ISSN: 1743-9337
• Publisher: Routledge
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 13
• Issue: 3
• Pages: 354-369
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/13572330701500771
• Keywords: Political Science and International Relations; Law
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/409800
• Publisher URL: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/13572330701500771?journalCode=fjls20