An MP can write directly to a minister on your behalf and will get a non-standard response. Your MP may not agree with your point of view, but will still write to the relevant minister and will then forward the reply to you.
MPs can ask Parliamentary questions to help gather information and generate discussion by requesting a debate in the House.
Your MP can help to influence other MPs by proposing or signing up to Parliamentary motions. These will not bring about change by themselves but can attract wide support and increase the pressure on the government to act.
MPs can create support outside Parliament by writing articles for newspapers, or highlighting the concern when speaking in public.
Yes. The more MPs hear about an issue from their constituents, the more likely they are to take action. Many MPs suggest the most effective lobby tool is approaching them in their own constituency.
No, MPs need to keep on top of a wide range of issues. Often you will know more about a particular issue than your MP. And your MP may well be grateful for any information you can provide.
No. The party in power formulates current government policy, but all MPs have influence that they can use in Parliament or in the Government.
MPs will be more likely to take up a case for you if you are contacting them after pursuing other avenues. May be you have been touch with the local authority or other agencies, but without success. An MP can achieve more on your behalf if you have exhausted other options.
MPs can help gain media coverage as their involvement will help to lift the story in the minds of journalists, although the people perspective is often the most powerful aspect of a media story.
If your MP supports your view they may well want to help you gain media interest. They are not strangers to self promotion and will have good media contacts.
You can ask for your MP's comments on an issue before you present your story to the press, television or radio. The media will be more likely to seek the opinion of the MP when they write the story. This will get the story more publicity and also make sure the MP states their view publicly.
It is your MP's job to represent you. It doesn't matter whether or not you voted for them. If you don't know who your MP is, you can find out from http://www.faxyourmp.com or visit the local library or Citizens Advice Bureau.
Most MPs hold a "surgery" in their constituency, where you can see them personally. It is usually held once a week or once a month. Details of the surgery are often advertised in local newspapers, or you can try asking at your local library. Alternatively, you can contact them through their office at the House of Commons. Address your letter as follows:
Name of MP
House of Commons
London
SW1A 0AA
You can also telephone your MP's office there. The number is
020 7219 3000.
You can meet your MP at their surgery, or you can ask them to attend a more formal meeting with a group of you to discuss issues. Send them some briefing information in advance such as a summary of your views or concerns - try to keep this to a side of A4.
When you meet your MP make your argument clearly, bring facts showing why you need what you are asking for. Include somebody in the group who has personal experience of the issues you are talking about, so they can explain how they have been affected. If it is relevant, point out how many people in the constituency you represent, or how many people are affected by your issue.
Everybody has a right to visit their MP at the House of Commons and to ask to speak to them about their concerns. MPs have to make every effort to meet constituents when they do this.
Mass lobbies can be effective in raising the profile of an issue. Contact the House of Commons' Sergeant at Arms for advice on attending with a large number of people.