It's time to change the oath for MPs

Many Members of Parliament (MPs) in the UK do not want to swear the oath to the monarch for several reasons, typically rooted in political beliefs, personal principles, or regional identities. The refusal is often a symbolic act reflecting their stance on the role of the monarchy or their commitment to other values. Here are the main reasons:

1. Republican Beliefs

- Most hold republican views and oppose the existence of a monarchy.

- They believe that swearing allegiance to a hereditary monarch is incompatible with democratic principles and prefer a system where sovereignty lies with the people rather than a royal family.

2. Regional or Nationalist Identities

MPs from nationalist parties, such as Sinn Féin (Northern Ireland) advocate for Irish reunification and do not recognise British authority in Northern Ireland, making allegiance to the monarch unacceptable to their political position..

3. Religious or Ethical Objections

- Certain MPs might object to the religious aspects of the oath or its connection to the Church of England, particularly if they adhere to a different faith or are secular.

- Others may refuse out of personal integrity, feeling that they cannot honestly swear an oath to an institution they do not support.

4. Perception of the Oath as Outdated

- Critics argue that the oath, which emphasises allegiance to the monarch, does not reflect modern democratic values.

- Many MPs believe that their loyalty should be to their constituents and the constitution, rather than an unelected monarch.

What Does the Oath Say?

The oath requires MPs to swear allegiance to the monarch and their heirs:

"I swear by Almighty God that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles III, his heirs and successors, according to law."

What Happens if MPs Refuse the Oath?

MPs who refuse to take the oath cannot take their seats, participate in debates, or vote in Parliament.

Proposals for Reform

Many have called for reforming the oath to allow MPs to pledge allegiance to the constitution, Parliament, or the people they represent, making it more inclusive and democratic.

Changing the oath of allegiance to remove references to the monarchy will require a formal legislative process in the UK Parliament:

1. Propose Legislation

- An MP or group of MPs would need to draft a bill to amend the current wording of the oath. This could take the form of a:

- Private Member’s Bill: Proposed by an individual MP not acting on behalf of the government.

- Government Bill: Introduced by the ruling party if it decides to support the change.

2. Parliamentary Debate

- The proposed bill would be debated in both the House of Commons and the House of Lords.

- MPs and Lords would discuss whether the oath should be amended to reflect allegiance to democratic principles, the constitution, or the people rather than the monarch.

3. Public Consultation (Optional)

Proponents of change might seek public input through consultations, petitions, or referenda to gauge national support for removing references to the monarchy.

4. Gain Parliamentary Approval

- The bill would need to pass multiple readings in both the Commons and the Lords.

- A majority vote in both houses is required for the bill to become law.

5. Royal Assent

- Ironically, any legislation removing references to the monarchy in the oath would still require royal assent to become law. However, royal assent is now a formality, and the monarch does not usually refuse it.

Conclusion

MPs who refuse to swear the oath often do so as a matter of principle, whether because of republican beliefs, nationalist priorities, or objections to the monarchy’s role. While their stance can be polarising, it highlights broader debates about the monarchy’s place in modern Britain and the tension between tradition and democratic representation.

Call to action!

Write to your MP and tell them that it is time to change the oath!