I am very much for this modernisation. As I wrote before when the idea was raised:
Quite frankly, it is a long overdue modernisation. In fact, I would go further and say that MPs should also be allowed to take laptops in. That way, MPs can continue doing constituency and other work whilst aiding in holding the government to account.It is simply about time that MPs can email in the Commons. Iain Dale is "totally against" it, but I just can't see any reasons why. It just makes no sense. Parliament must not be cut off from society.
Having the ability to do other work whilst waiting to speak in a debate would also allow MPs to increase their efficiency and give us, the British taxpayers, better value for money. Instead of sitting on the green benches for
hours with little or nothing that they can do, having the opportunity to do other work, such as answering constituents' emails.
Britain is a modern nation, and it is really about time that our democratic institutions begin to reflect this... Of course, precautions would have to be taken with the noise that such equipment makes, but that should really be a minor effect, especially if silent "rubber keyboards" like those on the Welsh Assembly computers were used.
I am also very much for the "open questions" period, but I'm not convinced by the idea of giving new MPs three weeks to "settle in" before the House of Commons returns to session after a general election.
