to be sad and angry that there were only about 20 MPs in the House..

[BertrandRussell]

...when the new MP for Kensington and Chealsea made her maiden speech? You would have thought a few more might have made an effort in the circumstances. Very good speech, by the way.

[Spudlet]

Depends what else was on at the time. Maiden speeches are good, but they don't really achieve anything concrete. If there was a debate in Westminster Hall, for example, or better still some Bill committee meetings happening, that would arguably be a better use of their time.

It doesn't look good though. Somebody could have scheduled it better.

[BertrandRussell]

Yes, I know all that. (ex parliamentary clerk here!). I just think on this particular occasion a few more people could have turned up.

[DrDreReturns]

Why? Because of the fire? If so why is it important that the member for that constituency's maiden speech is well attended? Call me obtuse but I don't understand.

[Zafodbeeblbrox10]

When do they ever all turn up for work? Lazy cunts

[TheFallenMadonna]

Just Kensington. Chelsea is now with Fulham and still Tory. But yes, a bit surprising in fact.

[Spudlet]

Sorry op, didn't mean to be a patronising cow. Hope I didn't come across as such!

It's just so many people equate the work of Parliament with sitting in debates on nothing much, when (as you know as well as anyone) a lot of the important stuff happens off camera, in the boring committee rooms that no one ever really films. I sort of feel the need to stand up for MPs on that front at least. (Former civil servant and then lobbyist here).

I do take your point about the speech, whether it's shit scheduling or whatever, it's not a good look.

[24hoursinER]

Given there have yet to be any bills introduced, statutory instruments scrutinised or select committees appointed, I think we can assume there was not any more pressing parliamentary work to do.

[LarrytheCucumber]

My MP always seems to be there in the front row looking vacant a d bored. I think it is to convince us he's working hard.

[ThomasinaCoverly]

Ooh, Bertrand, what was that like? I've seen a few jobs advertised there (I work in Whitehall) and have wondered about a move to Parliament.