What are the primary tasks of backbench MPs in the UK?
1. To deal with problems raised by their constituents. If you have a problem with a government ministry or department, then if you aren’t getting anywhere on your own, getting your MP involved can be very effective as they are in a position to throw their weight about and get something done because they are an MP. They can raise the matter in an adjournment debate*, for example, and then the Minister HAS to be there to reply. In some ways it’s better to have a backbench MP rather than a Minister as your MP as they have more time to do this, and most of them do spend a lot of time and work very long hours on this kind of work. (It also helps them get re-elected – it rather puts you off voting for them again if they aren’t helpful! My own MP is very good on this and always answers any letter.) Which brings me to another point… 2. To represent the views of their constituents in Parliament. If an MP gets a lot of letters on a subject, and they agree with the views expressed, they will qu
