MPs are on call with new iPhone app

Published on Friday 2 July 2010 11:50

A NEW way for constituents to contact their MP was launched today with an iPhone app specially developed to promote digital democracy.

Edinburgh West Liberal Democrat MP Mike Crockart was one of the first six MPs to sign up for the new MyMP app, which aims to create better dialogue between politicians and the public.

Its promoters say the app provides people with a simple way to contact their MP and allows MPs to invite views on key issues.

Mr Crockart said: "People are rightly no longer satisfied by only hearing from their MPs at elections or through annual reports.

"I'm excited to be part of the launch of the MyMP app, which will offer a far greater level of interactivity."

The app has been developed by digital agency Public Zone and the National Endowment for Science, Technology and the Arts (Nesta). It is not for profit and will always be free for constituents. MPs can sign up free until October.

Jonathan Kestenbaum, chief executive of Nesta, said: "With public trust in politics at an all-time low, mobile technology is a simple way of making politics more accessible and interactive."