Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

House of Commons Commission

22 July 2021 · 2 other contributors

Opened by Chi Onwurah Lab Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West

Parliamentary Procedure

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Chi Onwurah raised concerns about house of commons commission in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • Concerns raised about ensuring covid-19 secure workplace for House of Commons staff after restrictions lifted on 19 July 2021
  • Highlights discrepancy in mask requirements for Members who travel in constituencies versus in Parliament
  • No specific asks of government or commitments made by the Commission recorded

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Chi Onwurah Lab Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West

Asks about the steps taken by the Commission to ensure a covid-19 secure workplace for House of Commons staff following the lifting of restrictions on 19 July 2021, and highlights that Members travel extensively in their constituencies without being required to wear masks while there is no requirement for them to do so in this place.

Other contributors (2)
  • Chi Onwurah Lab Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West

    Echoes thanks to the staff of the House of Commons who ensure smooth and safe proceedings, questions whether more requirements can be placed on Members to better protect staff from covid-19.

  • Charles Walker

    Thanks the staff for their efforts, acknowledges that being gregarious is a job requirement, but notes that there is no meaningful way to enforce a requirement on Members to wear face coverings in the Chamber; however, they are strongly encouraged to do so.

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