MP ‘Asbos’ could force them to stay away from harassment victims

  • Overhaul of Commons rules planned in response to bully and harassment claims
  • Measures could include ‘Commons Asbos’ banning MPs from going near victims
  • Package being prepared by Commons Leader Andrea Leadsom after allegations

MPs could be banned from being in the same room as victims of bullying or harassment.

The drastic ‘Commons Asbos’ are being mooted as a way to crack down on the deep-seated cultural problems at Westminster. 

They would work in a similar way to restraining orders – forcing politicians to keep their distance from individuals.

A package of measures is being put together by Commons Leader Andrea Leadsom in a wake of a series of scandals about bad behaviour in Parliament.

‘Commons Asbos’ are being mooted as a way to crack down on the deep-seated cultural problems at Westminster. Pictured is the House of Commons last week

A package of measures is being put together by Commons Leader Andrea Leadsom in a wake of a series of scandals about bad behaviour in Parliament

A package of measures is being put together by Commons Leader Andrea Leadsom in a wake of a series of scandals about bad behaviour in Parliament

It emerged last week that the Commons authorities have paid out around £2.4million to staff in ‘gagging’ deals. 

More than 50 non-disclosure agreements were signed by parliamentary staff between 2013-18, figures released under Freedom of Information rules showed.

John Bercow is among those who have faced allegations of bullying staff – although he strongly denies the claims.

Separate cases have involved accusations of sexual harassment by MPs. 

An independent inquiry into the Westminster culture is being carried out by a former judge, but it will not consider specific allegations. 

According to the Sunday Express, the ‘Commons Asbo’ arrangements could see MPs banned from bars in Parliament.

The move would be contemplated in response to lower level misbehaviour. 

Tory MP Andrew Bridgen told the newspaper: ‘It does not seem very practical. I think it would make it impossible for MPs to do their jobs.’

Mrs Leadsom has already made clear that errant MPs and peers could face expulsion or a by-election as part of the crackdown.

Those who face repeated allegations could be put on a ‘watch list’ even if the claims are not proved. 

Parliament is expected to vote on the new system as early as next month. 

It emerged last week that the Commons authorities have paid out around £2.4million to staff in 'gagging' deals

It emerged last week that the Commons authorities have paid out around £2.4million to staff in ‘gagging’ deals

  

 

 

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