Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Voting by Proxy

23 October 2024 · 2 other contributors

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

Parliamentary Procedure

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 voting by proxy in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • Proposes an amendment to allow Members with serious long-term illness or injury to vote by proxy.
  • Current temporary arrangements for proxy voting expired at the end of the last Parliament.
  • Emphasises the need for careful consideration and recommendations from the Procedure Committee.

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

Proposes an amendment to allow Members suffering from serious long-term illness or injury to vote by proxy, as the current temporary arrangements expired at the end of the last Parliament. Emphasises that permanent changes must be made with care and asks for recommendations from the Procedure Committee on how this should be implemented.

Other contributors (2)
  • Chris Philp Con Croydon South

    Agrees with Lucy Powell's intention but raises questions about defining thresholds, who decides eligibility, and what evidence would be required. Asks if a doctor’s certificate will be necessary.

  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    Welcomes the motion and praises the House for its consideration during the covid period. Supports extending the proxy voting arrangement for a five-year period to show that the House is kind and caring, especially in times of pressure.

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