Rebuilding trust in politics: Views from the British public

It’s no secret that public trust in politics has declined significantly in recent years. Although the overwhelming majority of MPs work tirelessly for their constituents and our country, it only takes a few instances of unethical behaviour to taint the reputation of all Parliamentarians and call into question a system that fails to adequately hold them to account.

From “Partygate” to lobbying controversies and other high-profile sleaze scandals, Westminster has been shaken by actions that undermine the public’s confidence over recent years. It follows that as Parliament returns, fulfilling the Prime Minister’s pledge to restore faith in politics and strengthen our democracy should be a top priority.

That’s why, thanks to the 38 Degrees community, we have come together to make our voices heard on this issue. We’ve created a report containing our newly commissioned research  on public opinion around the minimum standards for MPs. With the Government’s new modernisation committee in the process of being set up, we’ll be using this research to push for the kind of changes that would deliver the PM’s promise to restore public trust in politics.

The public’s demand for accountability

Our survey of over 50,000 38 Degrees supporters revealed that a staggering 91% have lost trust in MPs. Further polling, conducted by Savanta on our behalf, shows overwhelming public support for stronger accountability measures with more than two thirds backing one or more of our policy proposals.

These include banning second jobs that pose conflicts of interest, imposing attendance requirements, and prohibiting MPs from betting on political outcomes. The aim of these reforms is to ensure that MPs prioritise the public good over personal benefit.

To what extent do you support or oppose the following policies?

(The data was produced by Savnata and commissioned by 38 Degrees)

Key recommendations from our research

1. A job description for MPs – A clear outline of MPs’ responsibilities would make it easier to assess their performance and hold them accountable.
2. Minimum attendance requirement – The current system isn’t fit for purpose, and doesn’t properly take into account MPs for example who are on maternity leave. This should be addressed through reforms, and MPs should be required to regularly attend Parliament and serve their constituencies, ensuring they represent residents effectively.
3. Ban on certain second jobs – Restricting MPs from taking on outside employment that creates conflicts of interest would help restore public confidence.
4. Ban on betting on political outcomes – Preventing MPs and their staff from betting on political events would reduce the perception of self-serving behaviour.
5. Outlawing political deception – MPs must be held accountable for deliberately misleading the public, with legal consequences for dishonesty, similar to measures that have already been committed to in the Welsh Senedd.
6. Tighter controls on gifts and donations – Strengthening financial transparency would curb undue influence from special interest groups.

Cultural shift in politics and the path forward 

Rebuilding trust in UK politics won’t happen overnight, but the recommendations in our report provide a practical starting point. Beyond these proposed rule changes, our report emphasises the need for a cultural shift in Parliament. The public want to see all MPs lead by example, embracing transparency and ethical conduct. Public pressure for reform is high. By engaging with these recommendations, politicians are taking a meaningful step to rebuild trust.

This blog is a summary of 38 Degrees’ report on MP standards. You can read the full report by clicking here