How can MPs raise issues in Parliament?
Members of Parliament will often feel passionately about issues raised by local constituents or political causes and will want to use their position to raise these in Parliament.
By raising an issue in the House of Commons, MPs can seek to bring it to the attention of the government, other MPs, the press and wider public.
If an MP intends to draw attention to an issue in the House, they have a range of methods to do so. Some of these are listed below.
Parliamentary questions
Asking a parliamentary question about an issue may secure information or a commitment from the government and guarantees that the minister’s reply is put on the record. Questions can be asked by an MP in the chamber, or in writing.
Early Day Motions (EDMs)
Tabling an EDM, and encouraging other MPs to sign it, can demonstrate the level of interest or support an issue has among MPs.
Short debates
Applying for a short, half-hour debate gives an MP the opportunity to set out their concerns to a minister more fully and receive a considered response. Short debates take place at the end of each day in the chamber and on Tuesdays and Wednesdays in Westminster Hall.
Backbench business debates
Applying to the Backbench Business Committee for a debate, with the support of other MPs, can highlight an issue and bring it to wider public attention. The committee can allocate time for longer debates of up to 3 hours so that many MPs can participate.
Bills
If a change in the law is needed to address the issue, an MP can introduce their own bill to Parliament. MPs can also propose an amendment or New Clause to a relevant government bill while it is being considered in the Commons.
Points of order
Raising a matter on a Point of Order in the crowded chamber, for example after question time, can bring a time-sensitive matter to the attention of the Speaker, the government frontbench and, in some cases, the media.
Urgent questions
Applying to the Speaker for an Urgent Question can ensure that a minister comes to the House on the same day, to provide a statement and answer MPs’ questions on a matter of immediate concern.
Emergency debates
Asking the Speaker for permission to apply for an Emergency Debate can lead, occasionally, to the day’s scheduled business being deferred so that a pressing issue can be prioritised.
Private correspondence or meetings
Writing to the relevant government minister, or arranging to meet with them, allows an MP to raise a particular concern in confidence. MPs’ correspondence with ministers is prioritised by civil servants who must provide a ‘high quality’ reply in a timely manner.
Most MPs can use all of the opportunities listed above. However, about a third of MPs take on additional roles which may affect what they can say and do publicly in the House of Commons. For more information see: MPs who hold an additional office