Reflections on Daylight Saving

I was extremely disappointed with the outcome of Friday's debate. It is highly frustrating that a Bill with the support of around 120 MPs did not even make it to a vote because of the deliberate poor conduct of a number of honourable members. I was there throughout, until the end. It was truly outrageous that these five MPs worked assiduously to "talk out" the legislation on the spurious grounds of seeking to improve the Bill. Of course they wanted nothing of the sort and it is regrettable (to say the least) that they managed to thwart the will of so many people.

Along with a number of other MPs, I gave up a great deal of time on a day that I usually dedicate to the constituency. The time spent in the Chamber proved fruitless, thanks to the abuse of procedure that occurred. A Labour MP has already emailed us all to raise the whole issue of how Parliamentary procedures were used and how things can be reformed.

I will support any moves that I think will avoid this from happening again. I hope it will also interest you to know that I have passed my concerns about the fact an exceptionally popular bill fell foul of the system to the Speaker; the first time I have done so in my time as an MP. I have no doubt that I am not alone in my concerns either.

I firmly believe that all my constituents need to have faith that when they campaign for change on a matter, their voices are heard. Events like this shake the faith people have in Parliamentary procedures, and make a mockery of Private Members' Bills. However, I hope that some good will come of this and provoke change for the better.

Despite the negativity of those who opposed the Bill on Friday, I know Rebecca Harris MP and Lighter Later both remain extremely optimistic and have committed to seeing the Bill return, either by persuading the Government to take up the legislation or lobbying for additional parliamentary time. I would like to reassure you that, whatever course it takes, I will remain firmly committed to supporting this highly worthwhile campaign, and to pressing for change to the system so this scandal is never repeated. In my mind, it is imperative this Bill is given more time, so it can be given the just hearing it fully deserves. 

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