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Talking Point: Should MPs be allowed second jobs?

Former attorney general Geoffrey Cox said he will co-operate with any standards investigation into his conduct (Stefan Rousseau/PA) (PA Archive)
Former attorney general Geoffrey Cox said he will co-operate with any standards investigation into his conduct (Stefan Rousseau/PA) (PA Archive)

Former Attorney General Sir Geoffrey Cox was caught in the ongoing sleaze row today, and denied breaching rules regarding MPs’ second jobs.

Labour called for an investigation into whether Sir Geoffrey, the Conservative MP for Torridge and West Devon, “brazenly” used his MP’s office to participate in legal hearings.

A statement published on his website today said the leading QC makes “no secret” of his professional activities and ensures work for his constituents is always prioritised, but Prime Minister Boris Johnson has signalled his displeasure, with his spokesman warning MPs that they should prioritise parliamentary work.

Coxs’s statement added: “It is up to the electors of Torridge and West Devon whether or not they vote for someone who is a senior and distinguished professional in his field and who still practices that profession.”

Do you think MPs should be able to maintain second jobs, and use their offices for such work?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below for the chance to be featured on the ES website tomorrow.

Yesterday’s Talking Point: Should the Covid vaccine be mandatory for NHS staff?

CheshireCat commented: “Of course. Only the politically motivated and the overly religious are against it.”

Read More

What the papers say – November 11

Labour accuses Tory MPs of raking in £1.7 million in consultancy fees

Being an MP ‘not a part-time hobby’ say Geoffrey Cox’s constituents