Parliament now looks a lot more like the country it represents - let's make the most of it
3 min read
We didn’t just return an overwhelming majority at the election; we returned a very different type of parliament.
For the first time in modern history, more new MPs were elected than returning members. With that change and new energy comes huge responsibility.
One of the main strands of my work as Parliament’s representative in government, and government’s representative in Parliament, is to champion the reforms to the House of Commons that will ensure MPs can make the most of it.
I’m determined to ensure that the role of a back bench MP can be impactful.
When I was elected as an MP in 2012, I was fortunate to learn from some of the great Chamber performers how to make my voice heard, successfully bob for the Speaker’s attention, and navigate the complexities of working life in an imposing historical institution.
Those first few months – when you’re finding your feet while also working out when parliamentary procedure dictates you should get to your feet – are complicated.
I really valued the mentorship I received. Now, I’m trying to replicate that for new MPs through a series of events, where I help with questions on anything from the passage of legislation to the best routes for putting forward topics for debate.
In scrutinising legislation, holding ministers to account, and bringing local issues to national attention in Business Questions and other sessions, new MPs have a real opportunity to shape Parliament’s agenda.
This isn’t just about new faces finding their way around the historic Palace of Westminster – although that’s a challenge at times – I want to make sure they have the tools at their disposal to enact the changes this country needs.
But I’ve also learnt a huge amount.
These sessions have provided an opportunity to discuss how we can all work together to make the reforms our seat of democracy needs.
This government was elected with a mandate for change, and the Prime Minister pledged to return us to a politics of service.
For this new Parliament to achieve that, and to make the most of the talents it possesses, we depend on back bench MPs of all parties to play a meaningful role.
This election was not only record-breaking in the number of new MPs, but also in diversity. Women now make up over 40 per cent of the Commons, a record number of 90 minority ethnic MPs were elected, and there are more MPs with disabilities than ever before.
Parliament looks much more like the country it represents, and now we want to draw on that rich base of experience.
It’s a great privilege to sit in this House. To be an MP represents an opportunity to change the country for the better.
Anything I can do to support MPs in that mission, I will. My door is always open.
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