Monday, May 10, 2010
First Day in the Commons
A busy day, as I drove from Harlow to the House of Commons to get there for 0830 to begin induction for new MPs.
After showing various proofs of identity, I was given my House of Commons Pass, and various other documents and materials - in order to inform me as to what I needed to know about Parliamentary business. James Clappison MP (Hertsmere), kindly showed me around the voting lobbies, the Table Office (where MPs table Parliamentary Questions), and the Public Bill Office (which looks at Legislation). There is another two days of induction to go, with briefings and advice as to employment of staff and the like.
Although I have worked in and around Westminster for many years, much of this was new to me and it was fascinating to see the the mechanics of Parliament.
After dealing with many letters and emails, I then attended a meeting of the Parliamentary Party and David Cameron. The Tory leader explained to the party the decision to agree to a referendum on changing the voting system, in order to achieve a coalition with the Liberal Democrats. Our aim is to try and bring about a stable Government, and there has inevitably had to be some difficult concessions.
The next few days will show whether the Liberals agree, or prefer to prop up an ailing and failing Labour Party.
by Robert Halfon - www.roberthalfon.blogspot.com
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Sounds like you had a great day.
ReplyDeleteWheeeeee! Working the House of Commons, the mother of parliaments. All of that history and heritage around you and the excitement of being a new MP. I envy you. I hope you'll tell us all about it so that we, your constituents and friends, can share some of the excitement.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations to you on winning the election, Robert Halfon MP! I know you will make a fine MP for Harlow and hope you have a very distinguished parliamentary career: I don't doubt that you will.