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Committee on Standards
19 January 2022
Lead MP
Jacob Rees-Mogg
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
EmploymentParliamentary ProcedureStandards & Ethics
Other Contributors: 3
At a Glance
Jacob Rees-Mogg raised concerns about committee on standards in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Moves that this House approves the Fifth Report of the Committee on Standards, endorses recommendations in paragraphs 78 and 79, and suspends Daniel Kawczynski from service for one sitting day. The report follows an investigation by the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards into allegations of bullying against Commons staff.
Bernard Jenkin
Con
Harwich and North Essex
Explains that this is the first case of its nature to come before the Committee. Describes the establishment of the independent complaints and grievance system (ICGS), which was set up following Dame Laura Cox's report on bullying and harassment. The ICGS has a panel chaired by Sir Stephen Irwin, an experienced jurist. Jenkin outlines the process that led to Kawczynski being required to apologise for breaching ICGS rules, then criticising the system. He argues that this breach of conduct must be sanctioned seriously to uphold the credibility of the new ICGS.
Bristol West
Praises Bernard Jenkin's wise and measured words in representing the Committee on Standards' findings. She acknowledges that it is never enjoyable to sanction a member but believes most members adhere to codes of conduct. Supports the system's process which led to Kawczynski being required to apologise, seeing this as an illustration that the system works effectively. Debbonaire trusts Kawczynski to make amends and change behaviour.
Pete Wishart
SNP
Perth and Kinross-shire
Echos the praise for the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards, ICGS, and IEP. Acknowledges the smooth passage of the motion compared to a previous contentious one in November. Expresses hope that no attempts will be made to overturn future verdicts by the Standards Committee. Praises the effectiveness of the ICGS in addressing staff issues and ensuring complaints are taken seriously. Criticises bad behaviour towards House staff, welcoming an apology but emphasising there can never be an excuse for such conduct. Hopes for a positive outcome where staff feel confident to raise grievances.
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