The findings of a new enquiry released here on Monday concluded that a “disturbing” culture of bullying and harassment had been tolerated and concealed for too long in the UK Parliament.
The independent report, commissioned by Leader of the House of Commons, Andrea Leadsom earlier this year amid series of allegations against MPs and parliamentary staff, said there was a tradition of “deference and silence” that “actively sought to cover up abusive conduct” and gave no protection to those reporting bullying or sexual harassment. The enquiry, conducted by retired judge Dame Laura Cox, said parliamentary employees had been subject to a culture “cascading from the top down” and that change would not be possible until the departure of some senior House of Commons officials.