If you feel uncomfortable or violated by the conduct of a Member of Parliament (MP), there are clear, neutral steps you can take to address your concerns. The process is designed to be independent and impartial.
Steps to Take
1. Report the Incident
- Use the Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme (ICGS):
- The ICGS is the main route for reporting bullying, harassment, or sexual misconduct by anyone working on the parliamentary estate, including MPs.
- You can submit a complaint directly to the ICGS, which is independent of Parliament and ensures confidentiality.
- Alternative: Contact the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards:
- If the issue relates to a breach of the Code of Conduct (not harassment or sexual misconduct), you can contact the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards.
- The Commissioner investigates complaints about MPs’ conduct and can refer serious matters to the Committee on Standards or the Independent Expert Panel.
2. Investigation Process
- Independent Investigation:
- For ICGS complaints, an independent investigator is appointed from outside Parliament to look into the matter.
- The investigator’s findings are reviewed by the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards, who can refer serious cases to the Independent Expert Panel.
- Outcome and Sanctions:
- The Commissioner or the Independent Expert Panel can recommend sanctions, ranging from apologies and training to more serious measures, depending on the severity of the misconduct.
- In the most serious cases, sanctions may be referred to the House of Commons for a vote.
3. Support and Confidentiality
- Confidentiality:
- The process is designed to protect your privacy and ensure you are not treated differently for making a complaint.
- Support Services:
- You may be offered support services, such as counseling or advice, throughout the process.
4. Further Action
- Legal Advice:
- If you believe the conduct may have legal implications, you are entitled to seek independent legal advice.
- The complaints process itself does not determine legal liability or provide compensation, but it can be a step toward further action if needed.
Summary Table
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Report Incident | Use ICGS for harassment/misconduct; Commissioner for Code of Conduct issues |
| Investigation | Independent investigator appointed; findings reviewed by Commissioner/Panel |
| Outcome/Sanctions | Sanctions range from apologies to referral to the House of Commons |
| Support | Confidentiality and support services available |
| Legal Advice | Option to seek independent legal advice if appropriate |
This process is designed to be impartial and to protect the rights and well-being of complainants.
🔴 Immediate Actions (Today or ASAP)
- Document Everything: Write down exactly what happened, including dates, times, locations, what was said or done, and any witnesses. Keep any related messages, emails, or recordings.
- Report the Incident: If you feel harassed, bullied, or sexually misconducted by an MP or anyone working on the parliamentary estate, submit a complaint to the Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme (ICGS). This is confidential and handled independently.
- For Other Code of Conduct Issues: If your concern is about other types of misconduct (not harassment or sexual misconduct), contact the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards.
- Seek Immediate Support: Reach out to trusted friends, family, or support services if you feel distressed. Confidential counseling may be available through the ICGS process.
🟡 Short-Term Steps (This Week)
- Follow Up on Your Complaint: Confirm receipt of your complaint with the ICGS or Commissioner’s office. Ask about the expected timeline and next steps.
- Gather Additional Evidence: Collect any further evidence or witness statements that support your complaint.
- Keep Records of Communication: Save all emails, letters, or messages related to your complaint or the incident.
- Consider Legal Advice: If you think the conduct may have legal implications (e.g., criminal behavior, discrimination), contact a lawyer or legal aid service for advice on your rights and options.
- Use Support Services: Take advantage of any counseling or support services offered to you through the complaint process.
🟢 Strategic Follow-Up (Next 2-4 Weeks or Longer)
- Monitor the Investigation: Stay in contact with the ICGS or Parliamentary Commissioner to receive updates on the investigation progress.
- Review Outcomes: When the investigation concludes, review any findings or sanctions recommended. Ask for clarification if needed.
- Decide on Further Action: If you are unsatisfied with the outcome or believe legal action is necessary, consult with your lawyer about next steps, including civil claims or criminal reports.
- Protect Your Well-being: Continue using support services and consider counseling to help cope with the emotional impact.
- Know the Appeal or Complaint Review Options: Ask about any processes to appeal or review decisions if you think the process was unfair.
Your Legal Rights
- You have the right to report bullying, harassment, or sexual misconduct confidentially through the Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme (ICGS).
- The complaint process is independent, impartial, and designed to protect your privacy and prevent retaliation.
- You have the right to support services, including counseling and advice.
- You can seek independent legal advice at any time, especially if you believe the conduct might violate criminal law or civil rights.
- The process can lead to sanctions against the MP, ranging from apologies and training to referral to the House of Commons for further action.
- The complaint process itself does not replace legal action but can be an important step in addressing misconduct.
Where to Get Help
- Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme (ICGS): https://www.parliament.uk/independent-complaints-and-grievance-scheme/ – To report harassment, bullying, or sexual misconduct.
- Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards: https://www.parliament.uk/mps-lords-and-offices/standards-and-financial-interests/parliamentary-commissioner-for-standards/ – For other conduct complaints.
- Legal Advice: Contact a solicitor experienced in employment law, harassment law, or human rights law. If you cannot afford one, seek help from legal aid organizations or citizen advice centers.
- Support Services: Look for counseling or victim support organizations that can help with emotional support.
- Emergency Help: If you feel unsafe or threatened, contact local law enforcement or emergency services immediately.
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