THE region’s two MPs have not been very vocal at Westminster this year compared to their fellow politicians, it has been shown.
New data has been released which shows that the average MP has spoken 32 times in the House of Commons so far in 2024, raising important issues in their role and on behalf of their constituents.
However, David Mundell, Conservatives MP for Dumfriesshire, has spoken just seven times in the Commons so far this year, including two questions, plus five contributions to Westminster Hall debates.
This means he is ranked 517th out of 650 MPs for speaking up in parliament, according to official records.
However, Mr Mundell insisted this week that he is doing plenty of walking and talking locally.
He said: “My priority as an MP is to get out and about as much as possible across what is one of the largest rural constituencies in the country, meeting local people face-to-face in surgeries, on the doorstep and at community events.
“Through this work, I pick up thousands of issues of concern that I raise directly with Government Ministers and other responsible organisations.”
Meanwhile, Alister Jack, MP for Dumfries and Galloway and Secretary of State For Scotland, has spoken 19 times in the Commons so far this year. This places him 343rd out of 650 MPs for speaking up in parliament.
Mr Jack was unavailable for comment but it is understood that he was unable to attend parliament as much as he had hoped at the beginning of the year due to a family bereavement.
While the 2024 general election date has still to be announced, Alister Jack has already confirmed that he will be standing down after this term.
