MPs' security

IPSA holds the information that you request.

IPSA will always fund the appropriate measures to make sure that MPs and their staff can carry out their jobs safely. We receive recommendations on appropriate measures and standards of security from the police, including the counter terrorism divisions.

Standard security measures have been recommended by the police for all MPs. IPSA also funds any enhanced measures required which are recommended by the police.

I will take each of your questions in turn:

1. What guidelines do MPs receive from IPSA with regards to claiming expenses for security, i.e. CCTV, guard dogs, and close protection?

 A standard package of measures is available to all MPs that has been recommended by security advisers and the Police.

The Parliamentary security team at the Houses of Parliament provides guidance and support to MPs about their required security measures. All measures are determined by the Police based on threat assessments and are advised to IPSA and the MP.

MPs may also claim for enhanced measures that go above and beyond these, upon recommendation by the Police.

1. Can MPs decide where they purchase or hire their security from using Parliamentary expenses, or are there suppliers stipulated by IPSA?

 Since September 2016, there are two ways MPs can obtain the appropriate, recommended security for their homes and offices:

 Applying for Security Assistance funding from IPSA and being reimbursed for the costs, or

Ordering from Chubb Fire and Security, with IPSA paying Chubb directly.

 Additional measures must be procured by MPs who are advised to seek two quotes.

3. Which security companies do IPSA recommend MPs and Peers utilise?

IPSA does not recommend any supplier to an MP. Chubb has been contracted by the House of Commons to implement the recommended measures.

IPSA does not hold any information relating to the House of Lords. For Freedom of Information requests relating to the House of Lords, you will need to contact the House of Lords Administration. You can contact their FOI team at the following email address: foilords@parliament.uk.

This concludes our response to your request.