What does parliamentary privilege allow MPs to do?

Parliamentary privilege is a fundamental principle in the UK parliamentary system that provides Members of Parliament (MPs) certain protections and rights essential for their legislative functions. One of its key aspects is that it allows MPs to make statements and accusations in parliamentary debates and committee discussions without the risk of facing legal repercussions for defamation. This privilege is crucial because it ensures that MPs can raise issues, criticize institutions, or call for accountability without the fear of personal liability, thus promoting transparency and robust discussions within the legislature.

While voting in secret, proposing new laws, and speaking on behalf of citizens are important functions of MPs, they do not specifically relate to the protections afforded by parliamentary privilege. Voting in secret pertains to the confidentiality of voting processes, proposing new laws relates to the legislative process in general, and speaking on behalf of citizens reflects the representational role of MPs rather than a specific legal protection.