Prospect welcomes significant victory for parliamentary staff

MPs have voted to approve a new independent process for assessing bullying and harassment cases against MPs, following a long running campaign from staff, unions and others.

In a significant win, MPs also voted to prevent debates on the cases being held in the House of Commons, after worries had been raised that such a debate would give a platform to abusers and discourage victims from coming forward.

Reacting to the vote Prospect general secretary Mike Clancy said:

“The struggle to transform parliament into a workplace with exemplary modern working practices is not over, but this victory today is a significant step in the right direction.

“It was always wrong for MPs to sit as judge and jury on each other, this new process must pave the way for an end to the culture of hierarchy and deference that has led to unacceptable behaviour being swept under the carpet, and Prospect will continue to work to make that ambition a reality.

“This change today is only possible because of the bravery of the many victims of bullying and abuse, their determination and struggle will have a lasting impact for future generations and we should all be thankful to them.”