Oldham MP favours ‘digital’ Parliament

Oldham East and Saddleworth MP Debbie Abrahams

Oldham East and Saddleworth MP Debbie Abrahams has welcomed a letter from Dr John Benger, Clerk of the House of Commons, in which he states his commitment to finding a way for MPs to work remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr Benger’s letter came in response to a one signed by Mrs Abrahams and 153 other Members of Parliament, calling for a digital Parliament to be put in place by the time the house returns on April 21.

Mrs Abrahams said: “I’m pleased progress is being made and the House is committed to changing how Parliament works during these exceptional times. 

“We must enable democracy to continue during the coronavirus outbreak, so that the people of Oldham and Saddleworth can see their issues still being raised in Parliament despite the restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

"The country is adapting to social distancing, and working from home where possible, and so must Parliament.”

Mrs Abrahams added: “However, one cause for concern is that Dr Benger said in his letter that the House would have to come together to approve remote working.

"This raises clear issues as to how this can be achieved whilst respecting social distancing.”

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