THE Chartists are making a 21st-century comeback after a Gwent MP drew up his own reforming proposals.

Newport East's Paul Flynn is calling on the public to come up with ideas to make Britain more democratic.

Mr Flynn launched his charter for the 21st century at an event to celebrate the 164th anniversary of the Chartist uprising.

Five of the six points of the original charter, from secret ballots to universal suffrage were adopted in the 19th century.

Protesters lost their lives for the reforms when soldiers opened fire on them from Newport's Westgate Hotel.

Mr Flynn is hoping that his own Chartist campaign will be as successful, if not as bloody.

Mr Flynn said: "Because of Newport's Chartist history I believe it is our job to throw down the gauntlet. Our democracy is in need of an overhaul, and I have announced my charter in an Early Day Motion in Parliament."

Mr Flynn's proposals are to equalise votes, introduce national funding of political parties, extend a statutory duty of balance to all media, give 16-year-olds the vote, abolish hereditary power and require all political decisions to take account of global impact.

To submit your ideas go to www.paulflynnmp.co.uk