More Speakers' Junkets Signalled in Draft Inter-Parliamentary Relations Strategy

The Taxpayers’ Union is concerned that a draft 'Inter-Parliamentary Relations Strategy’ released by the Speaker is a platform for more controversial ‘Speakers' tours’ and junkets for partners of MPs. Responding to the draft strategy,Taxpayers’ Union Spokesman Ben Craven says:

“The draft strategy outlines what it terms a more ‘member-centric’ travel programme. That’s code for MPs having more control over where they travel and who with."

“Given the past abuse, we are suspicious of the use of professional development as a justification for sending MPs on international trips. This looks more like an excuse for travel thrown in as faux justification for these trips as there appears to be no wider programme of professional development. What private employer would have their travel agent responsible for their staff's training?"

The Taxpayers’ Union is also repeating calls for Parliamentary Service protection from the Official Information Act to be abolished. Mr Craven says:

“Unlike Ministerial trips where the spending, outcomes, and diaries are discoverable under the Official Information Act, these trips are much more secretive. If the Speaker want to expand the travel programme it is only fair for the transparency to also be stepped-up.”

ENDS

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