Labour MPs Call for Greater Diversity in Parliamentary Art

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A group of Labour MPs is urging a government-appointed commission to ensure the paintings displayed in Parliament reflect the diversity of modern Britain. The appeal comes as part of a broader set of proposals aimed at modernizing the institution and fostering a more inclusive environment.  

 

The group of eight backbench MPs, including former shadow ministers Stella Creasy and Dr. Rosena Allin-Khan, as well as Beccy Cooper, the newly elected MP for Worthing West, plans to present their recommendations to the Commons Modernisation Committee. This new panel, comprising 14 MPs, has been established to explore reforms to parliamentary procedures.  

 

Speaking to *PoliticsHome*, Beccy Cooper highlighted the evolving nature of Westminster. "Westminster is a changing place, with more women MPs, people from ethnic minorities, and people with disabilities," she stated. While emphasizing the privilege of working in Westminster, Cooper added that she and her colleagues are keen to propose changes to enhance its operation and inclusivity.  

 

This push for reform follows Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s controversial decision to replace several historic portraits in Downing Street, a move that has drawn criticism. Under previous administrations, portraits of Elizabeth I, Sir Walter Raleigh, and Margaret Thatcher were prominently displayed. These have now been substituted with landscape artwork, reflecting Starmer’s preference for less politically charged decor.  

 

The shift in artistic focus has extended beyond Downing Street. Chancellor Rachel Reeves recently replaced a portrait of Nigel Lawson, a prominent Conservative chancellor under Thatcher, with an image of Ellen Wilkinson. Wilkinson, a former Labour education minister and a founding member of the Communist Party of Great Britain, symbolizes Labour’s historical roots and progressive ideals.  

 

In addition to advocating for diverse artwork, the Labour MPs are reportedly considering other recommendations. These include providing parliamentary staff with greater access to green spaces and introducing regular, guaranteed breaks to improve well-being within Westminster.  

 

However, the proposals have not been universally well-received. Critics argue that such initiatives fail to address pressing national concerns. Elliot Keck, head of campaigns at the TaxPayers’ Alliance, expressed his dismay, saying, "Dear me. The quality of our current crop of politicians. How about these MPs spend their time fixing the backlog of driving tests or any of the other dozens of issues they were elected by their constituents to solve?"  

Steven Barrett, a commercial barrister and commentator, was similarly scathing. "We appear to have elected a bunch of controlling, authoritarian loons," he remarked, questioning the priorities of the MPs involved.  

 

The Commons Modernisation Committee is open to receiving feedback on potential reforms until just before Christmas, providing MPs and members of the parliamentary community with an opportunity to shape the future of Westminster. While the debate over parliamentary paintings may seem symbolic to some, it reflects broader discussions about representation and inclusivity in British political life.  

 

Based on a report by Daily Telegraph 2024-11-29