TAPPING OF HON. MEMBERS' TELEPHONES (No. 2)

Early day motion 1395, tabled 17 January 2006 by Roger Williams (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 38 members.

That this House condemns the planned proposals to abandon the Wilson Doctrine thereby permitting hon. Members' telephone lines to be tapped by HM security services; deplores this Government's irrational justification for spying on democratically elected representatives which, far from its stated aim of fighting terrorism, merely raises suspicions that any sensitive information gathered could be used for political gain by the Government of the day; recognises the vital importance of maintaining public confidence in this country's elected representatives as well as the political institutions they serve and that such plans damage the trust which the electorate place in politicians through the constitutional process of a general election; recognises the sanctity and supremacy of the parliamentary oath which ensures that parliamentarians operate with their constituents' best interests at heart; and reaffirms the belief that hon. Members are above all public servants and that suggesting hon. Members are potential instruments of terror is disrespectful of the public's ability to cast an informed judgement.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 19, Conservative 7, Labour 7, DUP 2, Respect 1, Scottish National Party 1, Social Democratic and Labour Party 1.