David Cameron has rejected Ed Miliband’s call for him to follow Labour’s lead in banning MPs from holding paid directorships and consultancies.

MPs are dedicated to the service of their constituents and the overwhelming majority follow the rules. But the British people need to know that when they vote they are electing someone who will represent them directly, and not be swayed by what they may owe to the interests of others.

Labour MPs and Prospective Parliamentary Candidates have already been put on notice that from the coming General Election the Party’s Standing Orders will be changed to prevent them holding such second jobs.

It is deeply regrettable that the Tories have rejected important measures which would help restore trust in politics.

David Cameron once promised change but now defends a discredited status quo. Faced with big challenges, David Cameron’s leadership has again been found wanting.

Rachel Burgin said “the vast majority of MPs work upwards of 80, 90, 100 hours for their constituents. Such MPs do not have time to undertake second jobs. The people of Hitchin and Harpenden deserve the services of a fulltime MP – and I am committed to being one if elected.  
I can understand some MPs getting paid for speaking engagements, writing political articles, or working a couple of hours a week to keep their professional credentials up-to-date. Holding several directorships in foreign jurisdictions – as Peter Lilley does – is a completely different matter.  If former Cabinet Ministers want to take on these responsibilities, they should leave Parliament to undertake them. For the avoidance of doubt, I unreservedly condemn the recent actions of both Rifkind and Straw.