Lobbying

Individuals, advocacy/special interest groups, and professional lobbyists can influence elected representatives through lobbying.

The practice of lobbying in order to influence political decisions involves individuals and organisations who want to influence decisions that may affect them, those around them, and their environment, contacting politicians and conveying their opinion on a political decision. Mass lobbying is when a group of people contact their elected representative and agree to meet with them at Parliament to discuss an issue.

Lobbying can affect political change

Lobbying activities can take various forms, including direct communication with legislators, participation in consultations and public inquiries, and the provision of research and expertise to inform policymaking. One of the primary ways lobbying can affect political change in the UK is by providing policymakers with information, expertise, and alternative perspectives on complex issues. Lobbyists often work closely with policymakers to educate them about the potential impacts of proposed policies, highlight the interests of their constituents or stakeholders, and propose solutions to address pressing challenges.

Subject to regulations

It’s essential to recognise that lobbying in the UK is subject to regulations and transparency requirements aimed at ensuring accountability and preventing undue influence on the political process. The UK has laws governing lobbying activities, including registration and disclosure requirements for lobbyists, codes of conduct for lobbyists and public officials, and restrictions on lobbying by certain groups, such as charities and trade unions.

Lobbying successes

Minimum wage increases: Lobbying by trade unions, workers’ rights groups, and grassroots activists has played a significant role in advocating for increases to the national minimum wage in the UK. Over the years, lobbying efforts have led to incremental increases in the minimum wage, aimed at improving the standard of living for low-income workers and reducing income inequality. Successive UK Governments have responded to these lobbying efforts by implementing minimum wage increases, with adjustments made periodically to reflect changes in living costs and inflation.

Marriage Equality Legislation (2013): Lobbying by LGBTQ+ rights organisations, advocacy groups, and supportive politicians played a crucial role in the passage of marriage equality legislation in the UK. Over several years, campaigners lobbied parliamentarians, engaged in public awareness campaigns, and mobilised public support for equal marriage rights for same-sex couples. In 2013, the UK Parliament passed the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act, legalising same-sex marriage in England and Wales, following successful lobbying efforts by LGBTQ+ rights advocates.

How to take action