Bullying and Harassment in Parliament

16th October 2018

St Albans MP pulled no punches during her intervention on the debate on bullying and harassment in Parliament. Mrs Main called for Speaker of the House of Commons, John Bercow to step aside amidst allegations of bullying in Parliament.

The report carried out by Dame Laura Cox QC found that women working in parliament have complained of “frequent sexual innuendos, bullying, harassment, lewd comments and inappropriate touching without consent.”

Mr Bercow, the Speaker of the House of Commons, was one of those named for alleged bullying by former staff in his office.

The damning report ended with Dame Laura stating that she did not see how ‘necessary changes can be successfully delivered, and the confidence of the staff restored, under the current senior House administration.’

During the debate, Mrs Main stated that ‘the fish rots from the head’ as she joined in support with Maria Miller MP’s statement that the Speaker, as the highest authority of the House of Commons, should consider his position.

Speaking after the debate, Mrs Main said, ‘I welcome Dame Laura’s conclusions about the role of the senior House administration. How can staff feel that their concerns are being listened to and appropriate action is being taken when senior figures are able to stay in their position whilst investigations are ongoing. 

‘In light of the very serious allegations surrounding the Speaker, I am sorry to say that given his position of authority, he should step down whilst this matter is dealt with.

‘Victims have taken a brave step to engage in this process, they must have every confidence that their allegations will be dealt with robustly and without fear or favour. All of us in the House, regardless of how senior, must be accountable for our actions.’

DISSOLUTION OF PARLIAMENT

I’m not currently an MP, as Parliament has been dissolved until after the General Election on 12th December 2019. This website will not be updated during the election campaign and is for reference of my work when I was a Member of Parliament.

To contact me during the campaign please visit 
www.stalbansconservatives.com or email me at
annemain@stalbansconservatives.com.

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