Has Harman got it right?
Peter Hoskin 3:04pm
Harriet Harman's spotted the obvious answer to the problem of MPs employing their children, Derek Conway-style – her consultation document recommends banning the practice altogether. Of course, any effort to slow the gravy train should be welcomed, but Harman's proposal is only the smallest of speed bumps. MPs would still be able to employ their spouses and partners. And that's before the honourable members start thinking creatively. How long, I wonder, before they'd hit on the idea of employing each other's kids?
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Simon
August 5th, 2008 3:43pm Report this commentThis is a typical arbitrary rule that doesn't address the real problem. The only criteria that should be used in making any employment decision are related to the ability of the person to do the job.
I am not defending people who abuse the system. However it seems ludicrous to demand that an MP be able to employ a partner yet not a child.
There should be an open application procedure for all MP-related jobs - with proper advertising etc. Other than that - the best person for the job is the best person for the job.
Diversity
August 5th, 2008 3:52pm Report this commentAn analysis of who employs their own children will, I suspect, reveal tha this is the measure which will least offend Labour MPs and be most awkward for the Tories.
It is all part of the lead-in to Harriet's forthcoming "regretful" acceptance that since there is to be a leadership contest, she has a duty to those who supported her for the Deputy Leadership; a duty to stand.
David Lindsay
August 5th, 2008 3:52pm Report this commentThey already do.
No one can live in London on the pay for these jobs. So they are only open to the independently wealthy. MPs are not the only such offenders, media types take note.
GS London
August 5th, 2008 3:53pm Report this commentGuido quite correctly points out that this is ageism... more "positive" discrimination from Harmanster.
Jack R
August 5th, 2008 3:56pm Report this commentActing PM Harman ('I'm only minding the shop') has put up an excellent, self-serving interpretation of socialist nepotism here, which will further reduce the standing of Labour.
Her 'blog', Google: 'Happy Harriet Harman', is amusing.
Diversity
August 5th, 2008 3:58pm Report this commentI suspect that a bit of analysis will show that this is the prohibition which will give least inconvenience to Labour MPs and most to the Tories.
It is all about Harriet's forthcoming "regretful" accaptance that, if there is to be a Leadership contest, she owes a duty to her supporters in the Deputy Leadership contest: a duty to stand for Leader.
John
August 6th, 2008 7:36am Report this comment"Has Harman got it right" - that must be the funniest oxymoron I have ever seen here.
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