This guide covers the entire process from deciding where to complain to preparing evidence and escalating the matter.

Step 1: Identify What Type of Complaint You Have

Different complaints go to different bodies.

A. Breach of Parliamentary Rules

Examples:

• Failure to declare financial interests
• Misuse of parliamentary expenses
• Paid advocacy
• Misuse of parliamentary resources
• Abuse of parliamentary position

These complaints usually go to the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards.

B. Bullying, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, or Discrimination

Examples:

• Bullying by an MP
• Harassment of staff
• Sexual misconduct
• Discriminatory behaviour

These complaints usually go through the Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme.

C. Criminal Behaviour

Examples:

• Fraud
• Assault
• Threats
• Corruption
• Hate crimes

Report these directly to the police. Parliamentary procedures do not replace criminal investigations.

D. Poor Constituency Service

Examples:

• MP refuses to respond
• Delays in correspondence
• Refusal to take up a case

There is usually no formal parliamentary complaints procedure for disagreements with an MP's political decisions or priorities.

Step 2: Gather Evidence

Before making a complaint, collect:

Essential Evidence

• Emails
• Letters
• Screenshots
• Social media posts
• Meeting notes
• Witness statements
• Audio or video recordings (where lawfully obtained)

Create a Timeline

Prepare a chronology:

example;

Date

Event

10 Jan 2026

Email sent

15 Jan 2026

Response received

20 Jan 2026

Incident occurred

25 Jan 2026

Follow-up complaint

A clear timeline greatly improves the likelihood that your complaint will be understood and investigated.

Step 3: Check Whether the Complaint Falls Within Jurisdiction

Not every complaint can be investigated.

Generally, complaints cannot be made simply because:

• You disagree with an MP's political views.
• You dislike how they voted.
• You disagree with their party position.
• They supported legislation you oppose.

Complaints are more likely to be accepted if they concern:

• Conduct
• Ethics
• Parliamentary rules
• Harassment
• Misuse of office

Step 4: Draft Your Complaint

Use a professional structure.

Template

Subject: Complaint Concerning [MP Name]

Dear Sir/Madam,

I wish to submit a complaint regarding [MP Name].

Summary

Briefly explain the issue.

Details

Provide:

• Dates
• Locations
• Individuals involved
• What happened

Evidence

List attached evidence.

Outcome Sought

Explain what you would like investigated or remedied.

Yours faithfully,

[Name]

Step 5: Submit the Complaint

Standards Complaints

Complaints concerning MPs' conduct can be submitted to the office of the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards.

The Commissioner will:

1. Assess jurisdiction.
2. Decide whether to investigate.
3. Request evidence.
4. Contact the MP.
5. Reach findings.

Possible outcomes:

• No action
• Rectification
• Apology
• Formal report
• Referral for sanctions

Harassment or Bullying Complaints

The Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme handles:

• Bullying
• Harassment
• Sexual misconduct
• Discrimination

Process:

1. Initial contact.
2. Confidential advice.
3. Formal complaint.
4. Independent investigation.
5. Decision and sanction process.

Step 6: During the Investigation

You may be asked for:

• Further evidence
• Clarification
• Witness details

Keep copies of everything submitted.

Do not alter evidence after submission.

Step 7: Understand Possible Outcomes

Outcomes may include:

Informal Resolution

• Apology
• Correction of records

Formal Resolution

• Published findings
• Formal reprimand

Serious Cases

• Suspension from Parliament
• Recall petition (in certain circumstances)
• Criminal prosecution (if police involved)

Step 8: If Your Complaint Is Rejected

Reasons may include:

• Outside jurisdiction
• Insufficient evidence
• Political disagreement rather than misconduct
• Anonymous complaint lacking supporting evidence

You may:

• Provide additional evidence.
• Submit a revised complaint.
• Use another relevant complaints route if appropriate.

Step 9: Public and Media Considerations

Before contacting the media:

• Ensure allegations are supported by evidence.
• Avoid defamatory statements.
• Stick to verifiable facts.
• Keep copies of all communications.

Step 10: Keep Records

Maintain:

• Original complaint
• Evidence bundle
• Investigation correspondence
• Notes of calls and meetings
• Final decisions

Create a single PDF bundle if possible.

Recommended Complaint Bundle Structure

1. Cover letter
2. Complaint summary
3. Timeline
4. Evidence index
5. Emails
6. Screenshots
7. Witness statements
8. Supporting documents

This is the format most investigators find easiest to review.