BBC Question Time returns to the spotlight

Former MP David Lammy gives his view

"If you can deprive people of their livelihood, you need to be beyond reproach."

Former Shadow Justice Secretary David Lammy has said that people in public office, such as MPs, need to be "beyond reproach" if they are going to make decisions that could affect people's livelihoods.

Lammy was speaking on BBC Question Time on Thursday night, in response to a question about whether MPs should be allowed to have second jobs.

Lammy said that he believes that MPs should be able to have second jobs, as long as they are not using their public office to benefit their personal finances. However, he also said that MPs need to be aware of the potential conflicts of interest that can arise when they hold multiple positions.

Lammy's comments come at a time when there is increasing scrutiny of the financial interests of MPs. In recent months, several MPs have been accused of using their public office to benefit themselves or their families.

The issue of second jobs for MPs is likely to be debated further in the coming weeks and months. The government is currently considering introducing new rules that would place stricter limits on the types of jobs that MPs can hold.

It remains to be seen whether the government will take action on this issue. However, Lammy's comments suggest that there is growing public concern about the potential conflicts of interest that can arise when MPs hold multiple positions.

If you can deprive people of their livelihood, you need to be beyond reproach. Former Shadow Justice Secretary David Lammy