Green MP proposes new hemicycle design for House of Commons

Ellie Chowns, the newly-elected Green MP for North Herefordshire, has proposed a redesign of the House of Commons chamber into a hemicycle to foster greater cooperation among parliamentarians. She argues that the current layout, which limits seating and creates a divide, is inefficient and outdated. Chowns also advocates for electronic voting to replace in-person voting, which she believes would streamline the voting process and allow for a more spacious parliamentary environment by restructuring the voting lobbies. Chowns's election victory in a historically Conservative stronghold was attributed to a vigorous campaign involving hundreds of volunteers. She noted that many constituents expressed their discontent with traditional Conservative policies, indicating a shift in voter sentiment. This change reflects broader concerns among the electorate regarding political representation and the effectiveness of current MPs. The Green MP has voiced apprehension about the potential rise of right-wing parties, particularly in light of proportional representation, which could lead to an increase in seats for parties like Nigel Farage's Reform UK. Chowns believes that a more transparent electoral system could expose the ineffectiveness of such MPs, thereby addressing concerns about their influence in Parliament. In addition to electoral reform, Chowns highlighted pressing issues such as housing and planning, which are expected to dominate the current Parliament. With over 27,500 homes planned for Herefordshire in the next two decades, she advocates for local authorities to have the power to implement rent controls in areas facing housing market pressures.