Procedure Committee launches inquiry into reviewing proxy voting arrangements
26 November 2024
The Procedure Committee has launched a new inquiry into reviewing the proxy voting arrangements introduced in the 2024–25 parliamentary session.
Chair quote
Cat Smith MP, Chair of the Procedure Committee, said: “Our predecessor Committee examined proxy voting arrangements closely, and this Committee will look to do the same in this Parliament.
This particular inquiry will focus on the recently reinstated arrangements for proxy votes in cases of serious long-term illness and injury, and the new arrangements relating to proxy votes for extended fertility treatments, to explore how well these arrangements are working to date and what, if any, changes need to be made so that these measures are effective and fair for all Members.
I look forward to hearing the views of colleagues in Government and from across the House on this matter.”
Background
On 23 October 2024, the House agreed to reintroduce proxy voting arrangements for serious long-term illness and injury by making changes to Standing Order No. 39A. These arrangements mirror those that were in place at the end of the last Parliament. They are, however, time limited, and will expire at the end of the present Session of Parliament.
The Leader of the House of Commons wrote to the Chair on 8 October 2024 asking the Committee to review the operation of the temporary arrangements, and to report on their operation before the end of the Session.
In her response of 7 November, the Chair indicated that the Committee would also be willing to consider as part of its review any further additions or changes to these temporary arrangements proposed by the Government.
On 25 November, the House of Commons agreed to further extend proxy voting arrangements to include complications relating to pregnancy, and extended absence for fertility treatment, as set out in the Leader’s letter to the Chair on 19 November 2024. These arrangements will also be considered as part of this review.
Further information
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