The Parliamentary complaints system can only work if there is a change in culture at Westminster

The BBC has revealed a string of allegations from people working in Parliament about inappropriate and harassing behaviour by MPs.

Members of staff have related tales of predatory behaviour such as being pulled onto an MP’s lap and subsequently being texted relentlessly. This is on top of a near constant stream of serious allegations against sitting MPs including rape.

Mike Clancy, General Secretary of Prospect, said:

“Once again we see multiple allegations of inappropriate behaviour by elected representatives in what is supposed to be a work place.

“The ICGS remains a far better system than we had previously, albeit one which can be improved. But it can only work if there is a step change in the culture of behaviour in Westminster.

“A complaints system can only work if its investigations are timely and if people are clear that perpetrators will face appropriate censure. Part of that has to be giving parliament the ability to exclude MPs from the house when they are accused of serious misconduct.

“As such the government must bring forward a vote on exclusion proposals at the soonest opportunity. If it delays until after recess workers will rightly worry that the proposals will simply be ignored, and that parliamentarians have no care for their right to be in a workplace free from the fear of harassment.”