The FDA, jointly with Prospect, has written to the Speaker of the House of Commons calling for a return to full hybrid arrangements in the House of Commons.

With London now in Tier 2 restrictions, and MPs travelling from all over the country, including areas in Tier 3, the letter from the FDA and Prospect argues: “In order to prevent the very real risk of a worsening crisis forcing Parliament to close, it is surely sensible that Parliament returns to remote working to protect staff and MPs and ensure that the important work of Parliament can continue in its vital work of holding the Government to account”.

FDA Assistant General Secretary Amy Leversidge said: “It is absolutely vital that MPs are able to effectively hold the government to account in the coming months. However, the House authorities also have a duty of care to all those who work on the parliamentary estate.
 
“Therefore, it is absolutely crucial that the government changes course and gives its support to a return to hybrid working. MPs proved earlier this year that it was possible to participate in the proceedings of the House remotely, ensuring continued scrutiny of government decisions, whilst protecting staff”.
 
Leversidge also pointed out that, with infections continuing to rise and more areas of the country facing tightening restrictions, the government needed “to put the health and safety of all those who work in Parliament first”.