Overview

This bill mandates the Leader of the House of Commons to propose a motion that would largely prohibit Members of Parliament (MPs) from holding paid second jobs. Exceptions are made for maintaining professional qualifications, frontline NHS/social care/emergency services work, and for jobs held before becoming an MP for less than a month.

Description

The bill compels the Leader of the House of Commons to introduce a motion to amend the MPs' Code of Conduct and its accompanying Guide. This amendment would add a new rule (Rule 11A) generally prohibiting MPs from taking paid work outside of their parliamentary or governmental roles.

Exceptions to the Rule: The new rule includes three exceptions:

• Work necessary to maintain existing professional qualifications.
• Frontline work in the NHS, social care, or emergency services.
• Work in a pre-existing job for MPs who have been elected less than one month.

Amendments to the Guide: The motion also amends the Guide to the Rules relating to the Conduct of Members. Specific paragraphs related to lobbying and inquiry procedures will be altered or removed. A new penalty – a fine at least equal to the earnings from the breach – is added for violations of the new Rule 11A.

Committee on Standards: The Committee on Standards is granted the authority to make further necessary amendments to the Guide in light of the proposed changes.

Government Spending

The bill itself doesn't directly involve government spending. However, the potential enforcement of fines and the administrative costs associated with implementing and monitoring the new rules could impact government spending, though the exact amount isn't specified.

Groups Affected

Groups affected include:

• Members of Parliament (MPs): Most MPs would be directly affected by the potential restriction on paid second jobs. Those who currently hold second jobs would need to comply with the exceptions or cease their outside employment.
• The Public: The public would be affected by the potential implications for the conduct and independence of their elected representatives.
• Employers of MPs: Employers of MPs who have second jobs would be impacted by any restrictions, potentially affecting their workforce.
• The Committee on Standards: This committee will have increased responsibilities related to enforcing the new rule and handling potential breaches.

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