three method that the people employ …

People participate by taking an interest in the working of the government and by criticising it when required. In August 2005, when a particular government increased the money people had to pay for electricity, people expressed their disapproval very sharply. They took out rallies and also organised a signature campaign. The government tried to explain and defend its decision but finally listened to the people's opinion and withdrew the increase. The government had to change its decision because it is responsible to the people.

There are many ways in which people express their views and make governments understand what actions they should take. These include dharnas, rallies, strikes, signature campaigns etc. Things that are unfair and unjust are also brought forward. Newspapers, magazines and TV also play a role in discussing government issues and responsibilities

Ministers have overestimated the number of people who will get jobs as a result of attendance on the work programme, according to the National Audit Office (NAO).

It finds that some contractors implementing the scheme may get into serious financial difficulty, and that no alternatives to the programme were considered before it was implemented.

The work programme has so far spent £63m terminating existing welfare-to-work contracts, the report discloses. Two former contractors have not yet agreed settlements.