New measures to tackle Westminster sexual harassment

NEW measures to tackle sexual harassment in Westminster are to be announced after a number of incidents emerged last year. Parliament is today set to unveil a report containing guidelines to tackle sexual harassment, according to ITV News.

The measures will include the power to recall MPS but also provide anonymity for the accused. The recommendations were agreed by a cross-party committee, set up by Mrs May.

Other guidelines will include a code of behaviour which must be signed by everyone who works in Parliament, an independent complaints procedure and training for MPS in what constitutes sexual harassment. Independent sexual violence advocates will also be implemented, as will a proper human resources service for staff.

Previously, accusations have prompted others to come forward, but some MPS are reportedly concerned about malicious claims. Several of the measures are to compensate for a lack of a human resources department in Parliament. The report was set to come out at Christmas but was delayed as a result of disagreements over some of the proposals being watered down.