GMB London Region has welcomed plans by MPs to bar parliamentary candidates from standing if they do not pass an enhanced DBS check.

The current situation allows candidates to stand for office even if they’ve got convictions for violent and sexual offences. The union believes this presents safeguarding risks and jeopardises public confidence in elected representatives.

Parliamentary standards?

Labour MP Jo White has written to the Leader of the Commons asking for enhanced DBS checks on would-be MPs.

Currently, anyone who’s served at least a year in prison can’t run for parliament. But beyond that it’s up to political parties to do their own vetting of potential candidates.

Critics of the status quo have pointed out that MPs often visit schools, hospitals and care homes and meet vulnerable people. There’s also the question of the welfare of colleagues.

If MPs faced enhanced DBS checks, they would fall into line with many local councillors.

Lisa Gillmore, Senior Parliamentary Researcher and GMB MPs’ and Peers’ Staff Branch President, said:

This is a positive change that will lead to better MPs and better protected workplaces across Parliament and constituency offices.

If you are not able to pass the same safety check that doctors, social workers or teachers do, then it is only right that you should not be able to run for Parliament.

Featured image via the Canary

By The Canary

This post was originally published on Canary.