Improves standards in political governance.  The trend in developed countries tends to be towards greater centralisation, and concentration of power in the hands of a small number of representatives. This, in turn, leads to the creation of a separate political class who will in some cases be more concerned with their own influence and enrichment than that of the voters, and makes it possible for wealthy individuals or companies to lobby politicians for laws favourable to their interests.  Increased use of referendums would potentially reduce the influence of lobby groups and corporate donors on the political system. [1]  [1] Knutsen, John. “Blueprint for a new European Confederation”, Basiclaw.net, January 2004.