How do we get better MPs?

Nearly everyone agrees that our MPs are not up to scratch. Two thirds of people believe that politicians are “merely out for themselves” and trust in politics is lower in the UK than in most OECD countries.

Recent scandals over second jobs, lobbying, and sexual misconduct have only damaged the reputation of MPs, with little sign of improvement in sight.

The path to improving the quality of our legislators is unclear. Some point to changing the conditions inside Westminster itself, while others look to the conditions of becoming an MP, and who chooses to apply for the job.

This event, the first of the Bylines Network’s Debates for Progress, will present a few options of how to improve the quality of our legislators. Speaking at the event will be: 

• Tom Brake, Director of Unlock Democracy 
• Tina Bhartwas, Labour and Co-Operative Councillor for Letchworth North 
  
• Josiah Mortimer, Chief Reporter at Byline Times 
  
• Harpreet Uppal, Labour's Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for Huddersfield 
  

The event will be chaired by Louise Houghton, Director of the Bylines Network.