Sir , the Chair of the
Administration Committee, today launched the Committee’s report
focusing on how Parliament can improve the way it treats
departing MPs.
In launching the report, Sir Charles said: “If the public want
better MPs, then we have to be open to the idea of treating MPs
better.”
The report makes a number of recommendations to the House Service
and IPSA. The key ones include:
- providing greater financial support to departing Members in
the months immediately following their exit from the House. This
support should recognise the time it takes to wind up offices,
settle business affairs, find alternative employment and, in many
cases, move home;
- acknowledging the public service of departed MPs, and their
contribution to democracy, through an event with the Speaker,
attended by family and friends, to both witness and celebrate the
presentation of a medallion of service;
- equipping serving Members of Parliament with vocational
training, qualifications and career development to prepare them
for their future careers, in recognition of the fact that at the
2019 General Election the average tenure of a defeated MP was
less than nine years;
- continuing the provision of security for those deemed to be
at high risk of an ongoing threat.
The nature of politics means that Members often have little
certainty on the timing of a General Election and therefore when
their jobs will come to an end. Political developments in recent
years have contributed to a feeling that MPs do not require – or
are not deserving – of support when they leave the House.
Loss of political office can have a considerable impact on
politicians, their staff, and their family members. A former
Member commented that, for many MPs, Parliament, and the public
service it entails, is not simply a vocation, but their life.
Chair's comment
“Parliament matters. The role of a Member of Parliament – in
debating and making laws, scrutinising draft policies and
representing and servicing constituents – is a noble enterprise,
and one that should be defended, encouraged and recognised.
“However, it is clear that without the right support for Members
when they leave Parliament, we may well be putting off talented
candidates from seeking election to the House of Commons.
“Too often, for the sake of expediency, the front-benches make
short-term financial decisions to assuage public anger or
concern. However, all political parties, and those MPs serving
within them, have a duty to ensure that the House can attract and
retain talented people of all different backgrounds from across
the UK.
“We must recognise that, if the public wants the best individuals
to represent them in the House of Commons, it is vital that MPs
receive the support they need to do – and leave – their jobs
well.”
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