Petition · past parliament · Cabinet Office
Change procedure to require MPs to formally record reasons for abstention
Closed
38 signatures
What the petition asks
When a division is called, a vote is taken, and participating MPs' positions are recorded. However, when an MP abstains, there is no clear record provided. This procedural change aims to reduce ambiguity and ensure transparency by requiring MPs to formally state their reasons for abstaining.
Currently, constituents face a disadvantage when evaluating their representatives if they abstain from voting, as there is limited information available. Reasons for an abstention could include; the impartiality of the chair, party abstentionist policy, personal choice to abstain, procedural reasons, constituency or ministerial duties, or other unforeseen circumstances.
This procedural change aims to eliminate this ambiguity by requiring a clear reason for abstention, ensuring transparency for constituents.
This procedural change aims to eliminate this ambiguity by requiring a clear reason for abstention, ensuring transparency for constituents.
Timeline
| 1 Aug 2023 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 1 Feb 2024 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
38
Status
Closed
Department
Cabinet Office
Opened
1 Aug 2023
Closed
1 Feb 2024
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.