Watchdog calls for naming of MPS under investigation

THE parliamentary standards commissioner has signalled that she wants to start naming those MPS who are under investigation, stating that a “lack of openness” undermines the work of the watchdog.

In her annual report, Kathryn Stone said the system made it possible for an elected representative to stand for reelection “without the public knowing that they are being investigated”.

As it stands, MPS suspected of potential wrongdoing are granted anonymity while the issue is investigated.

The information was previously in the public domain but was restricted in 2018 in response to an inquiry into sexual harassment and bullying in Westminster. Andrea Leadsom, who was then leader of the Commons, ushered in the change to give complainants confidence to come forward directly.

However, similar anonymity was applied to all cases of MPS investigated for breaches of the Commons code of conduct, meaning allegations of the wrongful use of parliamentary expenses were also investigated in secret.

Signalling her wish to revert to the old system, Ms Stone said: “If a serious concern comes to light and no one confirms that an investigation has started, it is easy to assume that no action is being taken. It is also easy for misinformation to circulate.

“These arrangements allow an MP to stand for office or for re-election without the public knowing that they are being investigated. I have therefore asked the standards committee to invite the House to restore the pre-july 2018 arrangements.”

This would allow her to publish the name of the MP and a “very brief ” explanation of the complaint, which represented “a proper balance between confidentiality and transparency”. Ms Stone added: “I am sorry to say that for the past two years there has been less openness than before about my inquiries.”

The report showed complaints about MPS rose from 268 in May this year to 383 in June. In 2019-20, the commissioner received 2,726 allegations about the conduct of a named MP, an increase of 11 per cent on the previous year.

Ms Stone also warned of a lack of planning for a new bullying and harassment process, after MPS voted to form an independent complaints panel under what is known as the Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme.

She wrote that the scheme posed “risks to credibility” of the standards process and was introduced “quickly and without clear governance”.