Is there a case for bringing the Commons up to date?

“Antiquated”, rowdy” and weak” are some of the main criticisms levelled at the House of Commons in evidence provided to the Commons modernisation committee, which is chaired by the leader of the House, Lucy Powell.

- SEAN O'GRADY

A variety of interested parties, including the Hansard Society and the Commons women and equalities committee, have submitted proposals for reform that are designed to make the place more accessible, in every sense, as well as inclusive.

Powell says: “The role of an MP has changed: no longer just legislators, [we are] increasingly helping constituents with problems, being visible and active in the communities we represent. We have a greater diversity of MPs and a broader range of political parties in the Commons than ever before, but some of our processes and procedures don’t reflect this new reality.” No doubt traditionalists will be horrified...

Is the right honourable lady serious?

Yes, it would seem so, and it is certainly true that for many members of the public, terms such as “honourable member”, “second reading”, “debate on the adjournment”, “reasoned amendment”, “privilege”, “humble address” – and, indeed, “leader of the house” – are opaque.