The week in Westminster

The week began with the election of a new Speaker. I supported John Bercow throughout the contest and so I very much welcome his appointment. John was elected on a manifesto pledge to continue with reform of Parliament including the issue of MPs expenses. I am confident that he will pursue these reforms with energy and enthusiasm, and I look forward to an improved Commons shortly.

From the last week’s activity in Parliament, it clear we are taking the necessary steps to reform the political system and regain the public’s trust. The recently-published Parliamentary Standards Authority Bill will create a new independent body which will take on a series of responsibilities relating to the finance, conduct and discipline of MPs including the registration of members’ outside and financial interests and the setting and authorising of allowances.

The Prime Minister has also proposed a code of conduct to govern MPs. These measures are in addition to those already announced to toughen the rules. Furthermore, all parties have committed themselves to accept the recommendations of the Independent Kelly Committee when they are published later this year.

Thursday saw my second appearance as a panellist on the BBC show, Question Time, coming from Newquay in Cornwall. The panellists included the Conservative shadow security minister Dame Pauline Neville-Jones, Sun columnist Kelvin McKenzie, Liberal Democrat MP Julia Goldsworthy and Plaid Cymru assembly member Leanne Wood. It also must have been one of the few Question Times in history to feature the sound of seagulls and a ginger cat roaming around the set!

All in all, I thought the show was enjoyable and went well. There was some interesting discussion and debate on a range of topics such as MPs expenses, the political situation in Iran, the wearing of burkas, bankers bonuses and the Royal Family. I was pleased we were able to have some sensible discussions while still being able to get our point across rather than the point-scoring and bickering that all-to-often takes place on the show.

This week is a busy one in Parliament. Today (Monday) is my first session of oral questions as Minister for Employment and Welfare Reform at the Department for Work and Pensions. More importantly, this week sees some big policy announcements from the Government which will, I believe, give people more power over public services.