MPs to consider tougher rules on 'outside interests'

MPs could face a further crackdown on second jobs after the committee in charge of standards in Parliament opened an inquiry into employment outside Westminster.

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The Commons Standards Committee announced yesterday that it would look at potential changes to the rules governing second jobs.

The inquiry is expected to include consideration of "proposals for a qualified prohibition on outside interests", which could mean some MPs having to give up roles outside Westminster.

Since coming to power, Labour has signalled its willingness to tighten the rules on second jobs following concern during the last Parliament over the number of MPs splitting their time between Westminster and other roles.