PHILIP Dunne, the MP for Ludlow does not know when he will be able to return to work in Westminster and for the second consecutive week is angry with the Government.

Mr Dunne has a health condition that requires him to shield until further notice.

The former health minister has been working from home, but new rules mean that he is unable to vote remotely.

Mr Dunne said the move would deprive some MPs from being able to represent their constituents fully at a critical time for the country.

MPs voted against an amendment which would have allowed continuation of some virtual proceedings by 242 to 185 and voted to resume physical voting by 261 to 163.

“Thanks to the introduction of the virtual Parliament, I have been able to vote, take part in debates and ask questions in the House, including asking the Prime Minister a question in PMQs last month,” said Mr Dunne.

“Although this system has very significant drawbacks compared with normal conduct of business, it has allowed Parliament to function.

“I completely understand why the Government wants MPs to return to work - as the country returns to the physical workplace, so too should Parliament. I also accept that physical presence is required to ensure the legislative programme can proceed through Parliament, for example so MPs can conduct committee stages of Bills which is hard to do online.

“But unfortunately, the Government has decided to scrap remote voting for those unable to attend in person.

“For those who have symptoms or are shielding, this requirement to vote in person while we are still confronting the COVID crisis, is disenfranchising many MPs.”

Members of Parliament can vote by proxy, but Mr Dunne says this is not good enough.

Select Committees are continuing to meet virtually, and Mr Dunne will continue to chair the Environmental Audit Committee.