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.

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.