Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Independent Expert Panel

23 October 2024 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Lucy Powell Labour (Co-op) Manchester Central

Standards & Ethics

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Lucy Powell raised concerns about independent expert panel in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • Sir Adrian Fulford is to be appointed as the Chair of the Independent Expert Panel for six years starting November 2024.
  • Lyndsey de Mestre, Andrew Hoyle, and Wendy Williams CBE are to join the panel as new members alongside the existing members whose terms end in 2026.
  • The new appointees are expected to maintain the IEP's reputation for rigour, fairness, and independence.

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Lucy Powell Labour (Co-op) Manchester Central

I move to appoint Sir Adrian Fulford as the Chair and Lyndsey de Mestre, Andrew Hoyle and Wendy Williams CBE as members of the Independent Expert Panel for a period of six years from November 2024. The IEP was established in 2020 to handle appeals regarding bullying, harassment and sexual misconduct complaints against current and former MPs, with its remit expanding in 2022 to include hearing appeals from the Committee on Standards. Four new members are being appointed today alongside the four existing ones whose terms will expire in 2026. I express gratitude for the outgoing Chair Sir Stephen Irwin and three members Lisa Ball, Johanna Higgins and Clare McGlynn, who have built a respected body known for its rigour, fairness and independence. The new appointees bring extensive legal and professional experience to ensure that the House and parliamentary community can continue to have confidence in the IEP’s capabilities.

Other contributors (1)
  • Chris Philp Con Croydon South

    I express agreement with the motion and thank the outgoing Chair Sir Stephen Irwin and other members for their service. I commend the newly nominated members, particularly Sir Adrian Fulford and Wendy Williams CBE. Sir Adrian has an impressive judicial career and Wendy brought effectiveness to her role as one of HM's inspectors of constabulary when we worked together at the Home Office.

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