Suspension from the House - Project Open Gov

A sanction preventing an MP from sitting in the House for a specified period.

Category: Parliament and elections Parliamentary procedure

Also used as: suspension from the House, suspended from the House, suspension of an MP, MP suspension, suspended MP

Source / explainer: Read the House of Commons standards process explainer

Last reviewed: 22 August 2026

Suspension from the House is a sanction that prevents an MP from sitting in the House for a specified period. Serious suspensions can have wider consequences, including possible links to the recall petition process where the statutory conditions are met.

Related terms

Committee on StandardsA Commons committee concerned with standards of conduct for MPs.Independent Expert PanelThe independent panel that determines appeals and sanctions in certain cases involving MPs.Recall of MPs Act 2015The Act setting out when a recall petition can be opened for an MP.Recall PetitionA process that can lead to an MP losing their seat and a by-election being held.