SBS Dateline | Interview with Martin Bell

This week we look at the future for British politics and discuss this "democracy in crisis" with veteran journalist and former independent MP Martin Bell.

In the wake of the British expenses scandal, the fall-out for MPs has been immense and what PM Gordon Brown is describing as the end to the "Gentlemen's Club" of Parliament.

While nearly ₤500,000 in expenses money has now been repaid, can either major party clear its slate?

Martin Bell had an respected career in journalism until 1997, when he ran as an Independent candidate on an anti-corruption and 'anti-sleaze' platform for what was one of the safest Conservative seats in England. He won with an overwhelming majority.

These days he acts as an Ambassador for UNICEF, and he's currently on a two-month long tour of speaking engagements.

Find out more this Sunday, 8:30pm on SBS ONE.