Dear Editor

There has been a lot of debate around MP’s standards and second jobs in the last few weeks.

I wanted to use this letter to set out my own views.

Two weeks ago, Parliament held a vote on changing the procedures on standards – the process used to punish MP’s when they’ve broken the rules. When the vote was held, I was on a pre-arranged Parliamentary visit to NATO in Germany, and as such, was not present for the vote.

However, I want to be crystal clear – had I been present – I would have absolutely voted against the proposals.

The government got it badly wrong, and it is right they have apologised. I was extremely angry by the way the vote was rushed through. There was little consultation, and it is completely wrong to retrospectively change the rules, which appeared to benefit one individual.

When it comes to second jobs, personally, I don’t know how any MP has time for a second job! I’m back-to-back every single day, helping local residents, and fighting for a better deal for our community. I simply don’t have time to do anything else.

There are some MP’s who work as doctors and nurses, or as Special Constables in the police. Others, for example, are trained lawyers who have represented good causes in court without being paid. I think it’s important we don’t end the option of doing that, but I am clear, if I am to represent people across Keighley and Ilkley properly, I could not have a second job.

There are MP’s of all political parties doing good work every single day. It isn’t fair or right that the bad actions of a few tarnish the name of us all.

Robbie Moore MP, Conservative MP for Keighley and Ilkley.