Your Member of Parliament is more accessible than you think. If you are passionate about an issue, respectful of the MP’s time, and willing to take the time for a meeting, your MP will likely be willing to meet with you.
Step 1 - Setting up a meeting
- Call, email, or visit the constituency office to set up a meeting with an MP. Provide your name, your postal code, and the reason that you would like to meet with the MP.
- If the MP is unavailable for a meeting, request a meeting with a member of their staff. MP staff have more time to meet with you and they can bring your particular concerns to the MP.
Step 2 - Preparation
- Stay informed on the issue (see “Doing Research”).
- Write a list of questions that you have for the MP (and specific proposals for solutions).
- Bring materials that the MP can refer to later (such as a one-page brief). Provide a concise background on the issue, your concerns, and your proposed solutions.
- Ask staff how much information the MP has on your issue. Offer to send informational materials before the meeting.
- Be prepared to listen: In a typical meeting with an MP, the MP talks two-thirds of the time, you one-third.
- Focus on how you can help the MP do their job. Where are the gaps in information? Do you have information that will be of value?
- Get others involved! The more voices, the stronger the message.
Step 3 - At the meeting
- Present your case clearly and concisely. Focus on one or two issues.
- Insist on a straight answer to your questions. If the representative agrees with you, get it in writing so you can hold them accountable.
- Have a calm and respectful dialogue (even if the MP disagrees with you). Show that you are willing to work with them.
- Always thank the MP for their time and for the opportunity to meet.
- A meeting with an MP usually lasts no more than an hour. Respect any agreed-upon time limit.
- Relax
Step 4 - After the meeting
- Follow up! Write a letter (or e-mail) thanking the MP for meeting with you. In your letter, summarize any commitments that were made, and ask for an update on what has been done.