What is an Early Day Motion?

An Early Day Motion (EDM) is an issue of concern that a Member of Parliament wants to raise during Parliamentary Sessions, but not necessarily immediately.

EDMs are used as a way of expressing the opinions of MPs over certain issues, whether or not they get discussed during Parliamentary Sessions. The topics covered are wide ranging: from health and the environment to standing areas at football games, and there is even a motion of no confidence in Her Majesty’s Government (EDM 351, 22 March 1979).

Motions can be brought forward at any time by any MP, and there is no limit as to how many they can bring forward. Other MPs who are in favour of the issue can register agreement to the motion. All EDMs get presented to Parliament, however, due to time restrictions, only a small number can be discussed.

An Early Day Motion consists of a single sentence. The sentence can get quite lengthy with a maximum of 250 words, broken up by commas, semi-colons, colons, or brackets. It is important to note that all EDMs have set wording at the beginning of each motion. All EDMs begin with "That..." because they must be expressed in the form of a resolution. They also should not criticise other MPs, peers, judges or members of the royal family except as the main subject of the motion.

For some recent EDM entries click here.