House of Commons Commission decisions – 10 March 2014

Present:

• The Speaker, in the Chair
• Frank Doran
• Angela Eagle
• Mr Andrew Lansley (Leader of the House)
• John Thurso

Respect Policy

The Commission agreed the draft text of a revised Respect Policy to form the basis for formal consultation with the trade unions. 

Support for Members' staff

The Committee took note of a letter from the Parliagender Workplace Equality Network, and agreed to discuss matters again at its next meeting.

Diversity and Inclusion: updated action plan

The Commission noted progress against the Diversity and Inclusion action plan, and considered a proposal for an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy to follow on from the Diversity and Inclusion Scheme in 2015.

Employment matters

The Commission was briefed on the outcome of the trade unions’ ballots on the pay offer to House staff; Management will now seek further meetings with trades unions to assess the way forward. The Commission also took note of papers from the Director of Finance and the Director General, Human Resources & Change.

Immigration status of those working on the Estate

The Commission noted with approval the introduction of additional audits of contractors’ compliance with pre-employment checks.

Intelligence & Security Committee of Parliament: update

The Commission took note of developments since October and confirmed that the House Administration should insist on a Government commitment to meet the costs of accommodation and security for the ISC before the transfer to Parliament was finalised.

Any other business

The Clerk of the House briefed the Commission on a report on Parliament’s online services prepared by mySociety.

Date of next meeting

The next meeting of the Commission/MEC will take place on Monday 7 April at 5.00 pm in Speaker’s House.