The Government must ensure that those who bring shame on Parliament by being found to have breached the MPs code of conduct, can no longer be appointed to the House of Lords. I want our democracy to be respected and for the electorate to believe in the probity of Parliament.
Allow MPs to participate in parliamentary proceedings and votes remotely
- Final Signatures: 35
During lockdowns, hybrid and virtual proceedings and voting was implemented to enable MPs to participate in parliamentary proceedings, and vote, remotely. This should be permanently reinstated, particularly in the light of the ongoing public health emergency.
Cancel the 2022 House of Commons summer recess
- Final Signatures: 29
The country is in a mess, yet the House of Commons is closing down and won't be sitting from 22nd July to 5th September. This year the summer recess should be cancelled and MPs work in Parliament through the summer to address the multiple serious issues facing the country.
Extend the rules of conduct for MPs to cover exchanges on social media
- Final Signatures: 306
Currently the Parliamentary Commissioner cannot investigate complaints regarding MP's exchanges on social media because these are not covered by the rules of conduct. The remit needs to be revised to include exchanges on social media.
Prevent the use of mobile devices by MPs whilst within the House of Commons.
- Final Signatures: 29
Remove the ability for MPs to use mobile devices in the Commons chamber.
We want the Government to introduce an Ending Trading and Holdings in Congressional Stocks (ETHICS) Act, prohibiting MPs, their spouses, and dependent minors from owning or trading securities, commodities, or futures. We believe this would help to restore trust in Parliament.
We want the parliamentary authorities and Government, working with political parties, to consider how to make Parliamentary debates an inclusive environment for those who communicate differently by changing procedures and modelling behaviours where all members are treated with respect.
Ban MPs from holding second jobs outside of the public sector
- Final Signatures: 29
The Government should ban MPs from having second jobs in the private sector for the period they hold a seat in Parliament. They should continue to be able to hold second jobs in the public sector, for example in the NHS or army, but not for commercial enterprises.
It is incumbent on the government to act now in the interest of both MPs and their constituents to allow MPs who can't attend in person to participate virtually in Parliamentary debates and procedures, and to ensure all MPs and therefore all constituents have their voices heard in Parliament.
Increase food and drink prices for MPs in House of Commons catering venues
- Final Signatures: 4,216
This Government voted to not establish free school meal provision during non-term time in the middle of a pandemic and needs to show solidarity. Prices for food and drink for MPs should therefore be increased to market rates in House of Commons catering venues.