I welcome the measures to modernise the constitution announced in the Government’s first King’s Speech in July 2024. This includes legislation to remove the right of hereditary peers to sit and vote in the House of Lords and this Bill, which has already passed the House of Commons, is short and narrowly focused. It is intended to be the first step in wider reforms to the Second Chamber. The Government has confirmed that it will consult on proposals and seek the input of the public on how politics can best serve them.

In the Commons, while the Government has no plans to change our electoral system, I agree with you in that, our first priority as MPs should be to serve our constituents. I support strengthening the rules restricting MPs from taking second jobs. These new rules will prevent MPs from being paid to give advice on public policy, current affairs o the workings of Parliament. This will send a clear message that all MPs must focus on serving our constituents and country. The previous Government did not support a similar ban in the previous Parliament.

Important work is being done by the Modernisation Committee which is examining ways to raise standards, address the culture of the House of Commons and improve working practices.

To ensure Ministers are held to the highest standards, I support strengthening the powers of the Independent Advisor on Ministerial Interests and I back the establishment of a new independent Ethics and Integrity Commission to ensure probity in Government.

I hope that, taken together, all these steps will help to restore confidence in our political system.

Thank you to those constituents who have contacted me about this issue and for sharing your views.

Rt Hon Hilary Benn
MP for Leeds South
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland