Andrew Gwynne, MP for Denton and Reddish, has welcomed a letter from the House of Commons authorities which commits to working together to finding a solution that allows Members of Parliament to work remotely during the Coronavirus period.
The letter from the Clerk of the House of Commons, Dr John Benger, comes in response to a letter signed by Gwynne and 153 Members of Parliament calling for a digital Parliament to be put in place by the time the House returns on April 21.
In his response, Dr Benger writes that the administration is “keen to find ways of enabling Members to maintain their scrutiny of Government, despite the restrictions that are in place” and describes steps that have already been taken to find digital solutions.
However, Benger also writes that the House would have to come together to approve remote working, raising clear issues as to how this can be achieved whilst respecting social distancing.
Andrew Gwynne said:
“I’m very pleased that Commons authorities have listened to our concerns and have committed to changing how Parliament works in these exceptional times.
“It is right that Parliament leads by example as the country adapts to social distancing and this is a very important step in the right direction.
“Very good progress has been made so far and I hope that this continues so that our democratic processes can continue without risking public health.”