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Closed Prevent people convicted of serious crimes standing or serving as MPs

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Ban anyone who has ever been convicted of serious offences (such as sex offences against children, terrorism, serious fraud, corruption, violent crimes) including foreign convictions and given a custodial or suspended sentence from standing for or serving as an MP; when appeals have been exhausted.

I believe any MPs convicted of serious crimes undermine public trust. Current law only vacates a current MP’s seat if given a custodial sentence longer than 12 months, and recall petition rules are limited. We believe the change suggested in this petition closes that gap, protects vulnerable people, and requires parties to vet candidates. It targets serious custodial offences only, balancing public safety with rehabilitation.

417 signatures

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10,000

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  • Petition published

    This petition can now be signed.

    If this petition gets 10,000 signatures, government will respond to it.

    If this petition gets 100,000 signatures, it will be considered for debate in Parliament.

    This petition will stay open until 17 May 2026.