Revised Plan: MPs Facing Police Charges to Face Ban from Parliament
The new government proposals are part of a wider national discussion on addressing violence against women and girls. Lawmakers who are under investigation for violent or sexual offenses will now be prohibited from entering the parliamentary estate if charged by the police, as per the revised plans. Following consultations with Members of Parliament and other stakeholders, the government presented a new motion to the House of Commons Commission in March for approval.
The House of Commons will deliberate on whether MPs should be banned from the parliamentary estate upon being formally charged rather than upon arrest. A Commons spokesperson stated, “It will be for the House of Commons to decide whether to accept these proposals.” This revision is a departure from the previous proposals put forth by the commission in the previous year.
A framework had been outlined in December 2023 by the commission for an assessment to be conducted when serious allegations of violent or sexual offenses are reported to senior House officials. The assessment would occur at the time of arrest.
An assessment panel consisting of MPs would review each case and determine the best course of action to mitigate risks, including the possibility of excluding individuals from the parliamentary estate. Additionally, the commission recommended a review of the policy after six months.
The decision to alter the exclusion threshold from arrest to the point of charge has faced criticism from union leaders. Mike Clancy, the general secretary of Prospect, expressed disappointment, labeling it as a “massively retrograde step.” He urged lawmakers to reassess the commission’s proposals to ensure staff safety at Westminster.
Meanwhile, the Angiolini report, which examined the mishandling of the Wayne Couzens case, has resonated with critics calling for better safety measures. Opposition leader Keir Starmer highlighted the failures outlined in the report during recent parliamentary sessions, emphasizing the need for a safer environment for women both in the workplace and society at large.
Under the current regulations, MPs cannot be forcibly removed from the parliamentary estate, and any arrangements for them to stay away are voluntary. Over the past few years, instances of MPs voluntarily staying away from Parliament due to rape allegations have surfaced.
PA Media has contributed to this report.
