There have been a number of significant debates in Westminster over the last few weeks as MPs discussed amongst other things the issue of Palestinian statehood and the recall of MPs Bill.
I attended the debate on Palestine and it was clear that there was consensus from all sides of the House to make urgent progress towards peace that will lead to a safe and secure Israel living alongside a viable sovereign Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders.
Having recently visited the West Bank and Gaza I am acutely aware of the issues faced in the region but the continuing troubles only strengthen the hand of extremists and the Government is rightly committed to bringing about a just peace for both peoples.
The recall of MPs Bill was recently published by the Government and looks to create a transparent and robust recall mechanism, where constituents are able to recall their MP if they are found to have engaged in serious wrongdoing.
Under its provisions MPs will be held to account between elections, but at the same time will not be left vulnerable to attack by those who simply disagree with them. The recall model fits with our system of parliamentary democracy and I support it. Constituents elect MPs to represent them for five years and they should be able to carry out their jobs without facing frequent recall campaigns by their political opponents but where an MP’s behaviour has fallen below the standards expected of them, this Bill ensures that they will be subject to a recall petition. It’s a good move; a right move.
Back in Rugby it was business as normal as I knocked on as many doors as possible to gauge local opinion on how the Government is performing. It is clear that people are pleased with how our economy is performing but turning the country around after the 2008 crash was never going to be an easy job and I think most people recognise that. When out knocking on doors I often pick up local issues that people want me to raise. If there is anything concerning you please get in touch and I will always do everything I can to help. You can contact me on 01788 579499 or via email at mark.pawsey.mp@parlaiment.uk.