FDSD is playing a leading role in developing the campaign for a UK Future Generations Act in partnership with Lord Bird and the Big Issue.
On Tuesday 12 February, a standing room-only meeting of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Future Generations considered the draft Wellbeing of Future Generations Bill. Chaired by Lord Bird, Sophie Howe, Future Generations Commissioner for Wales, Daniella Tilbury, Commissioner for Sustainable Development in Gibralter and Graham Smith, Chair of FDSD presented their thoughts on the Bill and answered questions from MPs and Peers. The Bill draws lessons from what we have learned from the experience in Wales, including where legislation can be improved for more effective long-term governance. The passage of the Bill will be challenging, but it is clear that substantial support and goodwill exists in both Houses and across political parties.
In the evening, a crowded reception of civil society and business supporters of the Bill celebrated the launch of the campaign. This was not just an opportunity to meet new and old friends, but to consider how the campaign could be shaped, the challenges we will face and the resources that different actors can bring to the table. As our Chair commented at the launch: “The recognition that our current political system is failing future generations is widespread. The Bill offers a way of responding to endemic short-termism. Our hope is that a mix of parliamentary, civil society, business and public engagement can create the necessary pressure for change. Future generations would expect no less from us.”
We will keep you posted as the campaign develops.
Further readings
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- Briefing note on the Wellbeing of Future Generations Bill [HL] 2019-20
- If you can think of a project in your organisation to suport the campaign, get in touch! See the #Today4Tomorrow campaign website to get involved.
