What exactly does a British MP do?
The job of an MP entails representing the interests of their constituents in their local constituency as well as at the parliamentary level. This splits the job of an MP into two basic parts – casework and legislation.
What does an MP do? Parliamentary Casework
On a local level, MPs handle a variety of issues and concerns that affect their constituents, such as housing, healthcare, and education. This can be for groups of residents but also for individual residents. MPs are responsible for holding regular surgeries and meetings to listen to their constituents’ concerns and provide support where possible, as well as taking on individual cases. MPs also work with the Government and relevant Ministries, local authorities and other organisations to improve their constituencies and promote economic growth and general health and well-being.
Most of the expenses drawn by MPs are to staff their parliamentary offices to prepare for legislation and to carry out casework. The number of emails coming into an MP’s office on an hourly rate is quite extraordinary – sadly, much of it is abuse that can distress the often young staff handling the parliamentary inbox or automated email campaigns that clog up the system and distract from the real casework of local residents.
MPs typically are in Westminster from Monday to Thursday and working in their constituencies on Fridays and Saturdays. Evenings are also standard work times. To do the job well takes a lot of commitment, energy and time.
(MPs are also working hard to ensure they get re-selected and re-elected at the next election – so there’s lots of campaigning and fund-raising involved, too as well as working with the local party)
What does an MP do? Legislation
On the parliamentary level, beyond your own Parliamentary ambitions, MPs play a key role in shaping national policy by introducing bills and participating in debates, committees, and votes in the House of Commons. In an ideal world, they would contribute to the drafting and introduction of well-designed and well-thought-through legislation.
They are also responsible for holding the government to account and representing their constituents’ views in parliament. As a part of their parliamentary duties, MPs also attend various events and meetings, both within the UK and abroad, to promote the UK’s interests and engage with other MPs and stakeholders. Ultimately, the role of an MP is to serve their constituents and make a positive impact on their lives while contributing to the development and growth of the country as a whole.
Given all of this, if you really think you’ve got what it takes, then keep reading this article as I run through some of the most commonly asked questions, according to Google, about Members of Parliament and how to become a Conservative MP.
How to become a Conservative MP in the UK
Becoming a Conservative MP is not an easy feat. First and foremost, you must have a strong passion for politics, as well as a deep understanding of the political landscape in the UK. You should also have a track record of community service and leadership, as well as a well-developed set of political and social values that align with the Conservative Party.
To become a Conservative MP, you must first pass the Parliamentary Assessment Board (PAB), which is a rigorous 6-7 hour two-part event that tests your skills, attributes, and values as a potential candidate. Passing this is no easy feat (it shouldn’t be easy, should it?) and requires a lot of preparation and practice. As mentioned earlier, the PAB is designed to weed out those who are not capable of doing the job well and those who may become future liabilities to the Party.
How hard is it to become an MP?
The short answer is that it’s incredibly hard to become an MP. In fact, a recent study by the BBC found that only 10% of applicants make it through the rigorous selection process to become an MP. This is not surprising given the high standards set by the Conservative Party and the level of competition for these positions.
In addition to passing the PAB, aspiring MPs must also go through a lengthy selection process, which involves interviews, presentations, and background checks. This process can take several months and requires a significant investment of time, effort, and resources.
How much does it cost to become an MP?
Becoming an MP can be an expensive proposition. According to a recent report by The Guardian, the average cost of running a parliamentary campaign in the UK is around £40,000-£50,000. This includes expenses such as advertising, travel, and office expenses.
However, it’s important to note that not all of these costs are borne by the candidate. Political parties often provide financial support to their candidates, and there are also various fundraising opportunities available.
It’s also worth noting that the cost of becoming an MP goes beyond just the financial investment. It requires a significant investment of time, energy, and emotional resources. The campaign trail can be gruelling, and it’s important for candidates to be prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.
How do I become a Conservative MP?
To become a Conservative MP, you must first apply to become a candidate. You can do this by visiting the Conservative Party’s website and filling out an application form. Once you have submitted your application, you will be invited to attend an assessment day, where you will be assessed on your skills, attributes, and values.
If you pass the assessment day, you will be added to the Party’s list of approved candidates and will be eligible to run for office in your constituency. However, it’s important to note that being on the approved list does not guarantee you a seat in Parliament. You will still need to go through the selection process and win the support of your local party and constituents.
Becoming a Conservative MP isn’t easy
In conclusion, becoming a Conservative MP is not easy, and it carries a significant cost for the candidate, the MP and their family, but we all need good elected representatives doing that job for the right reasons and with the right skills, and it can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience for those who are up to the challenge. It requires a deep commitment to public service, a strong set of political and social values, and a willingness to invest time, energy, and resources into the campaign trail. If you are considering a career in politics, I encourage you to take the time to reflect on your values and to consider whether you have what it takes to become a Conservative MP.
If you’re looking to make a difference in your area or the country, then politics is a good way to do that, and you may become the next success story, whether as an MP, councillor, or Police and Crime Commissioner, I’m here to help you navigate the challenges and complexities of the selection process, drawing on my extensive experience and track record of success.
Contact me today to learn more about my Getting Selected or Getting Elected courses and take the first step towards achieving your political goals.