The British Safety Council has called on the Speaker of the House of Commons to set an example of leadership in promoting the wellbeing of all MPs and their staff. 

In a letter sent by Chief Executive, Mike Robinson, and Chairman, Lawrence Waterman OBE, they congratulate Lindsay Hoyle, MP for Chorley, who was elected Speaker of the House of Commons on 5th November 2019.

They used the letter to ask the Speaker to: “Ensure the health and wellbeing of MPs, their staff and families and the staff of the House”. 

The House of Commons has come under significant scrutiny in recent years, with multiple allegations of bullying and harassment against MPs and other staff. It will be for the new Speaker to take forward reforms safeguarding health and wellbeing of staff and bringing about a culture change in parliament. Mr Hoyle pledged in his campaign to become Speaker that he would expand the provision of health and wellbeing services in parliament.

In their letter to the new Speaker, Mike Robinson and Lawrence Waterman said: “We very much hope that as the highest authority in the House, you will continue leading the work to ensure the health and wellbeing of MPs, their staff and families and the staff of the House.”

They went on to say: “Senior leaders are vital to maintaining a positive culture at work and encouraging good practice. Indeed, effective implementation of positive health and safety practices depend on strong leadership and the full commitment of the senior leaders.”