Along with over a hundred other MPs, I have signed a joint-letter that calls on the Clerk of the House of Commons to implement a ‘digital Parliament’ that would allow MPs to work while also social-distancing.

To limit the spread of coronavirus, MPs from all parties have been urging other organisations, employers, and the public to practise social-distancing. Many people will now be working from home and MPs should be doing the same whenever possible.

In normal circumstances, it is useful for MPs to be able to speak to each other in person but these are not normal circumstances. A number of MPs, including the Prime Minister, have already contracted coronavirus and we must do what we can to stop the virus spreading any further.

I am confident that a digital Parliament, which makes use of secure video conferencing, can be quickly established so that MPs are able work safely while also maintaining our democratic traditions.

When MPs are asking everyone across the country to change their work practices and lifestyles, Parliament must change too.