Shameful day for Commons as MPs vote themselves exemption from Freedom of Information law

5.34.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Fri 18th May 2007

Britain's fledgling open government laws were delivered a serious blow yesterday when MPs, backed by government ministers, voted to grant themselves a blanket exemption from the legislation. The move was roundly condemned by freedom of information campaigners and MPs opposed to the measure, who said it represented an attack on democracy.

Liberal Democrat Shadow Justice Secretary, Simon Hughes MP said: "This has been a shameful day for the House of Commons - MPs should set an example of open government, not apply it to everybody but ourselves. "David Maclean's Bill and the way it has got through the Commons will clearly diminish respect for Parliament. But the battle will go on and hopefully the Lords will deliver us from this terrible mistake. "I hope the public will make their views very clear to the MPs who supported the Bill and to the next Prime Minister that this is absolutely the wrong direction for open, accountable government."

Liberal Democrat Shadow Leader of the House, David Heath MP added: "This was a black day for Parliament. Firstly, because a bad bill which will damage both Freedom of Information and the reputation of Parliament was passed. Secondly, because Parliamentary procedure meant that many MPs could not make their voices heard. And thirdly, because the Government has been able to claim that it was neutral on the Bill while cynically doing everything it could to mobilise support for the former Conservative Chief Whip."