Two of the region's most prominent MPs have united in their opposition to Government plans to reform House of Commons working hours.

Both Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and Basildon and East Thurrock MP Angela Smith and Tory member for Rochford and Southend East, Sir Teddy Taylor, have spoken out against the plans.

Under the proposals, put forward by leader of the House of Commons Robin Cook, MPs would sit between 11.30am and 7pm.

Previously, the official finishing time has been 10pm.

Both MPs defended themselves after suggestions the "modernisation" would significantly reduce their workload.

Sir Teddy said he was "all over the place" for his constituents and "can assure them" he would not be reducing his workload.

He added: "While the 7pm finish might be OK for me and other south east MPs, what is going to happen to those who live in the north or in Scotland?"

Mrs Smith said she did not support the change although she does support a number of other changes to make the House of Commons more up to date in how it works.

She said:"This is not a nine-to-five job and I was not elected for a nine-to-five job."

Published Wednesday October 30, 2002

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