MPs vote themselves above Freedom of Information

The House of Commons voted last Friday for legislation “designed to protect MPs, not their constituents” by exempting themselves from the Freedom of Information Act. The story is well covered by blogs and traditional media. There is some hope at least the Lords will prevent this Private Members Bill reaching the statute books.

Here’s a list of who voted which way. If your MP voted ‘aye’, you should drop them a line to ask how this measure increases accountability and transparency in government. If your MP was absent from the vote, then write and tell them why this legislation only increases our distrust of the political establishment so must be opposed.

And if one attempt to limit use of the FOI regulations wasn’t insult enough, the Ministry for Justice are also trying to save politician’s blushes under the guise of saving a few quid. Please help us submit to the ongoing consultation by contributing to our consultation wiki page.