Comments on: Should BlackBerrys be banned in Parliament?

By: ThunderDragon

ThunderDragon — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 22:14:12 +0000

I disagree. In fact, I think it doesn't go far enough. If MPs can take BlackBerries or laptops in the Chamber, then they can be more efficient and give us better value for money. Britain is a modern nation, and it is about time that its democratic institutions reflect the nation it represents.

By: Rachel Joyce

Rachel Joyce — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 19:01:30 +0000

Much as we all like to think we can multi-task well, it would be difficult to really be engaged in the debate whilst on Blackberry. And just think how bad it would look on TV!!
I agree – we need to get the procedure/efficiency of the House in order first. It still seems to keep to old-boys-after-other-work-lets-have-supper-in-dining-room-while-debate-goes-on and lets-waste-time-in-this-debate-and-make-it-run-out-of-parliamentary-time rules. Time for a bit more of a shake up. Will be interesting to see David Cameron’s perspective on this.

By: Ellee

Ellee — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 17:19:08 +0000

David, there are so few MPs blogging that this would be highly unlikely. I agree with your last sentence though!
I would sympathise with the Speaker of the House trying to keep order if this went through.

By: David Brain

David Brain — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 17:16:27 +0000

But they could blog from their BB’s Elle! actually they would probably just send rude emails and texts to each other as happens in those mass event meetings in business.

By: Ellee

Ellee — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 17:03:16 +0000

Thanks Heather. I feel having mobile phones in the Commons during debates is totally inappropriate and is open to abuse, that they should resolve the causes behind their problem.

Yes Welshcakes, I’m sure that what MPs will be doing, they won’t be able to resist texting each other.

By: Heather Yaxley

Heather Yaxley — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 16:59:01 +0000

Ellee – I’ve written about this too and agree that addressing the inefficiency of parliament is more important.

“Downtime” should be put to good use – they might start by listening to debates rather than just thinking about when they are going to get their chance to speak.

By: Welahcakes Limoncello

Welahcakes Limoncello — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 16:54:23 +0000

Oh,god, it will be as bad as a classroom situation, with them all texting each other and the things going off all the time! Can’t people put up with a bit of boredom any more? – MPs are well paid to do so!

By: lady macleod

lady macleod — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 16:17:41 +0000

Gods forbid the politicians be bored, because they are all doing such exemplary work while on their best game. I’m interested.. exactly what are the Americans looking for in the French emails? fashion tips?