Why representation in local politics in London matters

When political representatives don’t reflect the demographics of the population that’s not just bad optics – it can lead to discrepancies between what politicians pursue and what people seek. Omar Hammoud-Gallego, Katharina Lawall, Alex Bulat and Isabelle McRae analyse the demographics of London Councillors and find that women, young people and minorities are underrepresented in local councils. The same was true of renters vs homeowners.