Public could stand in for MPS away on paid ‘baby leave’

NON-ELECTED members of the public could get the chance to stand in for an MP under proposals to offer six months of “baby leave”.

The Speaker, John Bercow, is considering plans to allow MPS to nominate a delegate as a proxy in the Commons to vote on their behalf. The member of the public – who would be accountable to the MP – would also be appointed to their constituency work.

At present, parental leave is left at the discretion of party whips, with no formal entitlement to look after babies and no arrangements for cover.

The motion of six months’ paid “baby leave” was discussed in September by the Commons reference group on representation and inclusion, which is chaired by Mr Bercow.

The plans have been developed by Harriet Harman, the former Labour cabinet minister, who wants to create a more family-friendly parliament.

The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, which polices MPS’ pay, has said it is “very supportive in principle” of the proposal. The move would bring MPS into line with civil service rules.