Time for MPs to take back control of the Commons

The government's level of control over what is debated in the House of Commons, and when, undermines parliamentary accountability and needs addressing urgently, says a report from UCL's Constitution Unit. Taking back control: Why the House of Commons should determine its own agenda  calls for a wide-ranging review of the government's grip on Commons business to give MPs more control over their own institution.  The report illustrates how MPs have surprisingly little say over what the Commons can discuss, the timetable for debates, or even when the chamber meets. Its authors highlight how this has caused significant controversy in recent years, from the 'seizing of the agenda' by MPs over Brexit to frustrations about being locked out of decision-making on COVID-19, and the way MPs needing to remain at home have been blocked by ministers from taking part virtually in some Commons proceedings during the pandemic. The report looks at both the day-to-day Commons agenda, in particular where MPs are presented with a weekly timetable by the government on a 'take it or leave it' basis, and Commons sitting times - where the government has monopoly control over both recalling parliament from 'recess' and over prorogation, where the Queen shuts down parliament on the advice of the Prime Minister. Some time on the Commons agenda is set aside for non-government business, such as debates led by the opposition or driven by backbenchers. But the timing of such business is still strongly controlled by government.