There is an argument a representative, be it a councillor or an MP, is elected to make decisions on our behalf.

They have a mandate to speak for their constituents, whether they voted for them or not.

It might not be ideal, but it’s how our system of democracy works.

But is there a better, more fair, way?

One school of thought says everyone should have a say on decisions.

The question is, can a vote on a mobile phone app or Facebook page be more reliable than an official consultation.

Jason Leonard, who is running as an independent in next month’s local elections, would argue the more power is diluted, the less likely it is to become corrupted.

So, if we put the power in the hands of thousands of people instead of one, we’re likely to get the “right” outcome.

What Mr Leonard also raises is the issue of disenfranchisement among a large proportion of voters.

The simple fact, Mr Leonard says, is they feel they are not being listened to and, often, turn to protest or apathy.

Fewer than 40 per cent of people voted in the all-out Colchester Council elections in 2016.

That is replicated up and down the country and is a sorry state of affairs.

Any attempts for councillors and MPs to engage with voters should be welcomed, but the key is involving them in the decision-making process and giving them a say on how our town is being run.