MPS could be ‘sacked’ by voters under new harassment measures

MPS and peers could face recall or expulsion under new sanctions for bullying and abuse at Westminster.

The measures are recommended in a report which reveals almost one in five parliamentary workers have experienced sexual harassment or inappropriate behaviour over the past year.

A survey of 1,377 staff found twice as many female employees had made complainants. 39 per cent of respondents reported experience of nonsexual harassment or bullying over the same period, including 45 per cent of women and 35 per cent of men.

The cross-party working group chaired by Leader of the Commons Andrea Leadsom recommended the creation of a binding Parliament-wide Behaviour Code as well as an independent complaints procedure and confidential helplines to report abuse. MPS, peers and staff will have compulsory training on harassment, and a new Independent Sexual Violence Adviser will be appointed to support complainants.

Kate Maltby, whose complaint about Damian Green led to his removal as deputy prime minister, welcomed the report as a “step in the right direction”, but voiced concern about proposals to grant anonymity to the subjects of sexual harassment complaints.

Under the proposed system, a complaint referred to standards committees in the Commons and Lords could result in the suspension of an MP or peer for a specified period. MPS suspended for 10 days of parliamentary business would face recall proceedings, which lead to a new election if 10 per cent of constituents sign a petition.

Thesurveyfoundthataquarter of those who had experienced inappropriate behaviour in the past 12 months spoke to their MP or line manager, but only half had confidence in the system for managing complaints.

“The evidence, particularly from staff, was that a change in workplace culture is both urgent and essential, and is ultimately the best guarantor of a change in behaviour,” the report said.

Ms Leadsom – who revealed she had encountered sexual harassment at Westminster – said the new procedures would “demonstrate that we want to be the best parliament in the world when it comes to treating everyone who works here with dignity and respect”.

But Unite, which represents MPS’ staff, said union recognition was needed to ensure support for employees isolated in small offices where power relationships are “frequently unhealthy and unequal”.

The report will be debated by both houses after the February recess.