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As I understand it the Government is carrying out a Consultation with the public to see whether there is sufficient support within the wider community for the governments' negotiated agreement with France. To set upon a course which has no public support in a situation like this would be untenable.

Following the Consultation the Government will establish a position which would become Government Policy (possibly different to my own personal views) and this will be recommended to Congress for its support or rejection.

One of the arguments seems to be from individuals in Congress is that the Government has no right to seek out the views of the general public before establishing its position. The argument seems to be that no clause exists in legislation to permit the Government holding a consultation/referendum. I would argue the reverse - that it has nothing to do with Congress as there is no mention of consultation/referenda as part of the remit of Congress within the current legislation. There is no provision in the legislation giving Congress the right to prevent the Government consulting with the wider public before establishing its Policy - why are some members of Congress apparently attempting to prevent the Government from establishing the wider views of the populace?

One of the most disappointing aspects of the last Government was that it sought to avoid the issue completely by collectively burying its head in the sand and then disappearing from the scene or as it's more popularly known - doing an Appleby!

The reality is that even if the public were to support the peace deal and the Government were to recommend it - Congress would still have the right of veto and vice versa. It is perfectly reasonable that I would exercise my vote as a member of Congress differently to the position of the Government of which I am part.

For the future:-
I would suggest we consider having provision for public consultation/referenda included within our legislation. It should be the Governments right to consult more widely with the general populace on contentious issues but that Congress should be overseeing the whole process and will always maintain the final say on any decisions.

Whilst the Government is not allowed to overrule Congress, the Government must not be prevented by Congress from seeking support for its Policies and if necessary pressuring Congress on something that has popular support. Remember Congress can remove the Government but the Government cannot remove Congress.