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Committee on Standards
09 September 2021
Lead MP
Stuart Andrew
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
Benefits & WelfareParliamentary ProcedureStandards & Ethics
Other Contributors: 5
At a Glance
Stuart Andrew 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
The motion seeks to endorse the recommendations made by the Committee on Standards, which suggest suspending Mrs Natalie Elphicke, Sir Roger Gale, and Theresa Villiers from the service of the House for one sitting day due to their improper influence over judicial matters. The speaker acknowledges that it is regrettable but necessary to propose such a motion, and he thanks the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards and the Committee on Standards for their work.
The Labour MP expresses disappointment over the improper influence of judicial matters by Members from the Government Benches. She highlights that such actions undermine trust in Parliament and damage its reputation, particularly considering the principles of democracy and the rule of law. The speaker also criticises the decision to suspend members on a Friday sitting day instead of a Monday.
David Davis
Con
Goole and Pocklington
Davis raises concerns about the Committee’s report, suggesting that it sets guidelines for parliamentary correspondence with the judiciary. He warns that such judgment could curtail Members from addressing miscarriages of justice appropriately. The speaker calls for a full debate on this issue to ensure proper guidance is established.
Thompson echoes the comments made by other speakers, agreeing with the importance of maintaining high standards among Members and the need to protect the independence of the judiciary. He requests that future actions consider suspending members on a day when their absence would have more impact.
David Davis
Con
Goole and Pocklington
Davis questioned whether MPs were making representations to protect individuals' privacy in giving character references. He also commended the Committee for addressing the issue appropriately, stating that the punishment is reputational rather than denying access to the House.
Stuart Andrew
Con
Daventry
Andrew noted his apologies for the absence of the Leader of the House and welcomed the report’s focus on clear guidance. He acknowledged that it is important not to scare Members from doing what they think is right, suggesting a debate on this topic could be beneficial.
Shadow Response
Chris Bryant
Shadow Response
Responding to David Davis, Chris Bryant reiterates that the intention is not to prevent MPs from addressing miscarriages of justice but rather to distinguish between proper and improper ways. The Labour MP highlights strong legal advice provided by Speaker’s Counsel on the difference between these two approaches.
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