Blogging off to e-democracy conference

I've been asked to represent the UK at an e-democracy conference because of my work with this blog.

Press release issued today:
Norwich Blogging Councillor asked to represent UK

Blogging Councillor Antony Little has been asked by the government to represent the UK at an e-democracy conference to be held in Hungary.

Bowthorpe’s Councillor Little will be one of the UK representatives at the event, which is co-sponsored by the UK's Department of Communities and Local Government, the United Nations, the Council of Europe, the International Centre of Excellence for Local eDemocracy and the National Association of Secretaries of State (USA) and will take place at the Intercontinental Hotel in Budapest, Hungary, between 26-28th July.

The event already has over 250 delegates registered representing over 40 different countries. The event is designed to develop a new conceptual framework to measure engagement and participation both at home and abroad and also offer the opportunity to meet and network with the key policy advisers on these issues.

Cllr Little said: “I am thrilled to be able to attend this event and represent the UK. My blog started as a bit of fun but has turned into a great way of keeping in touch with local people. I’ve since added a comments facility to encourage feedback too. It is important that local people can read my views, see what I’m doing and how I’m representing them.”

“Blogging has really taken off in the UK and I’m sure that this conference will give delegates the chance to share good practice in using IT to encourage participation.”

“I hope to be able to work with colleagues from Eastern Europe in look at ways to make democracy work better.”

Event organiser Dylan Jeffrey said that Cllr Little was chosen because he has “one of the most direct and enjoyable blog sites hosted by a local councillor.”