Firstly it is necessary to define 'citizenship' - in relation to politics and political parties. It is a term used to imply an individual's possession of basic rights under the state. There is some debate, between political parties, as to what this state initials.] The Resident political party, New Labour, believes citizen's right should be upheld through individual acts of parliament. This refers to such acts as the sexual discrimination act passed to give equal rights to both men and women. In this the individual would be protected under a 'Citizens Charter'. This charter outlines political, economic and social rights including such things as 'the minimum wage' and 'the freedom of information act'. With Labours introduction of its new 'Stakeholder' scheme it intends to involve the individual more in the community, seeing the family as central to this.
The Liberal Democrats also believe a 'Bill of Rights' is an integral part of Britain's policies on citizenship agreeing with Labour on many points though placing more emphasis on an individuals rights as opposed to duties.
English: A map of the results of the 2006 Rushmoor...
English: A map of the results of the 2007 Rushmoor...
English: A map of the results of the 2007 Southamp...In this The Liberal Democrats wave such ideas put forward by Labour as compulsory voting and community service.
Margaret Thatcher, once PM and leader of the current opposition Conservatives, once stated '' there is no such thing as society'' a view that has not been accepted by the wider majority of the conservative party. The conservatives also believe in the significance of 'duty' in relation to rights, promoting active citizenship, were the individual takes a more active role in the community in such things as neighborhood watch & charity work.
So where does that leave the British citizen? Though the individual now has several laws to enforce rights as of yet there is no definitive list under the heading of citizenship.
English: A map of the results of the 2008 Rushmoor...
Former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher
English: Margaret Thatcher, former UK PM. Françai...