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Security Update
20 October 2021
Lead MP
Priti Patel
Debate Type
Ministerial Statement
Tags
EconomyEmploymentLocal Government
Other Contributors: 12
At a Glance
Priti Patel raised concerns about security update in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Government Statement
Operation Bridger was established following the murder of Jo Cox to provide security measures to all Members. Following Sir David's attack, each police force has reviewed security arrangements for Members. The threat level facing MPs is now deemed substantial, the same as the national threat level. Security and intelligence agencies will reflect this change in their operational posture. The minister urged Members to access available security provisions under Operation Bridger and through relevant departments to protect staff and the public. She emphasised the importance of protecting democracy despite increased threats.
Torfaen
Question
Is the Home Secretary confident that our police, security services and Members’ security will have the resources they need to guard against this increased threat? Can she say more to Members and their staff about the additional guidance and support that may now be required?
Minister reply
The minister responded affirmatively, stating that all relevant organisations are working closely together to ensure adequate resources for security measures. She emphasised the importance of robust guidance and support for Members and their staff.
Torfaen
Question
Can the Home Secretary update the House on when the wider review she announced of Members’ security will be published? Can she also outline whether she will look more widely at the protection of all those in public life, including those serving in local government?
Minister reply
The minister confirmed that a comprehensive review of Members' security is ongoing and will be published soon. She noted an intention to examine broader protections for individuals in public roles, including those in local governance.
Torfaen
Question
Thanked the Home Secretary and acknowledged the unity in the House following Sir David Amess's tragic death. Asked about resources to protect MPs and staff, additional guidance for Members and their staff, timelines for a wider review of Members' security, and protection measures for all public servants including councillors.
Minister reply
Thanked Thomas-Symonds for his comments and acknowledged the joint efforts across the House to defend democracy. Acknowledged Operation Bridger's work and announced that the defending democracy team would look at protecting all elected representatives. Emphasised the importance of not publicly discussing security measures, respecting advice from agencies and police, and continuing to keep Members updated on protective security measures.
Julian Lewis
Con
New Forest East
Question
Asked if it is inappropriate for media to ask about MPs' future plans regarding their arrangements and suggested that answering such questions could be self-endangering.
Minister reply
Agreed with Lewis's observation, emphasising the need for Members to respect parameters when discussing security measures publicly. Advised listening to advice from agencies and police to ensure greater public protection.
Stuart McDonald
SNP
Glasgow North East
Question
Supported the Home Secretary's remarks about protecting democratically elected representatives while also ensuring they can meet constituents. Highlighted the need for cultural change in political harassment and intimidation.
Minister reply
Thanked McDonald for his comments, reaffirming the unity of the House to protect democracy and its citizens. Emphasised the importance of safeguarding all aspects of society where important work is done by elected representatives. Acknowledged the online space as a critical area requiring transformational change.
John Redwood
Con
Wokingham
Question
Many of us are very worried on behalf of our staff, so can the Home Secretary please make sure that there is good private reassurance, advice and additional support for them? They often face objectionable things too.
Minister reply
My right hon. Friend acknowledges the work of staff members who receive abuse directed at MPs. The Home Secretary emphasises that staff should feel assured about their safety and security through measures provided by PLAIT and parliamentary authorities.
Yvette Cooper
Lab
Pontefract, Castleford and Knottingley
Question
I thank the Home Secretary for her statement and express my thanks for the work of police and Security Service to keep MPs safe. Could she comment on her approach to targeting online that undermines democracy, particularly against black and minority ethnic MPs and women MPs?
Minister reply
The Home Secretary acknowledges the appalling abuse faced by female MPs and others. She highlights ongoing efforts through Mr Speaker's office and parliamentary security teams for profiling and support against online abuse.
North East Fife
Question
Thanking the Home Secretary, the hon. Lady inquires about support available from individual forces to help MPs make decisions regarding the support needed based on threat assessment.
Minister reply
The hon. Lady's point is important; national policing leadership ensures consistency across UK police forces for MP support through Operation Bridger and Counter Terrorism Policing. The system will remain agile, updating guidance as necessary.
Hilary Benn
Lab
Leeds South
Question
The right hon. Gentleman thanks Mr Speaker for his leadership and expresses appreciation of the Home Secretary's statement on staff support. He asks whether Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority will be part of ensuring consistent messaging about available support and funding.
Minister reply
Right hon. Gentleman is correct; IPSA engagement is crucial in providing support to MPs. Mr Speaker’s offices have addressed this diligently, emphasising the need for flexibility.
Kirsten Oswald
SNP
West Tyrone
Question
The hon. Lady appreciates Home Secretary's tone and asks about staff members' ongoing support in constituencies, echoing concerns of other MPs.
Minister reply
Hon. Lady is correct; engagement with local police forces is crucial for security at constituency level through Operation Bridger.
Martin Docherty
Lab
West Dunbartonshire
Question
The hon. Gentleman thanks the Home Secretary and expresses concern over lack of tangible evidence regarding threats to specific MPs, emphasising proactive engagement with local police forces.
Minister reply
Hon. Gentleman is correct; agility in response across police forces is necessary for protecting both MPs and public members engaging with them.
Shadow Comment
Nick Thomas-Symonds
Shadow Comment
The shadow welcomed the Home Secretary's statement, expressing condolences for Sir David's family and paying tribute to his contributions. He acknowledged the heightened threat level but emphasised unity against violence. The Labour MP thanked police and security services for their efforts. Questions were raised about resources for security measures, additional guidance support, publication of a wider review on Members' security, and protection of local government officials. He welcomed swift action on the online harms Bill and criminal sanctions for company executives.
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