Email Theresa May - Demand parliamentary sexual abuse is independently investigated

Widespread sexual harassment in Parliament has been exposed in a series of shocking revelations. Those in power are promising change, but on their own terms. It's time for an independent investigation so that the issue can be dealt with transparently and effectively.

The problem is so extensive that desperate female staff set up a secret Whattsapp group to warn each other about which MPs to "look out for". Behaviour reported included powerful male MPs groping female staff in lifts and taxis. In one of the many cases to come to light, Conservative MP Mark Garnier has admitted he made his secretary to buy sex toys for him, and called her "sugar t*ts".

Parliament is run by powerful people with their own allegiances and interests. This issue has been left unaddressed for far too long. It is also a workplace for many interns, researches, secretaries and aides, and it should be a safe place for young women starting their careers. This is currently far from the reality. We cannot trust PM Theresa May or the Parliamentary system to deal with this.

MEPs have just established an incredible precedent by voting for an independent audit of complaints procedures in European Parliament, to ensure sexual harassment and abuse allegations are dealt with effectively. Now it's time for the UK to follow suit.

Please sign this petition to send the email below to Theresa May, demanding that UK Parliament establish a team of independent experts to assess the reporting and support structures available for victims of sexual harassment and abuse, and advise on how to improve them. If enough people sign, it will send a clear message that it's time for real change.