The new MP for Whitehaven and Workington has ‘hit the jackpot’ after he was selected in the ballot to have the opportunity to present a private members' bill before the house of commons.

Josh MacAlister’s name was drawn fifth in the prestigious ballot, meaning he will be able to try and get a law through parliament – a privilege normally only granted to the government rather than backbench MPs.

A total of 458 MPs entered this session’s random draw in a bid to secure time on a sitting Friday to debate and progress a proposal from the opposition or backbenches.

The chairwoman of the Ways and Means Committee, Nus Ghani, the most senior deputy speaker in the Commons, drew the numbers, which were matched with MPs' names.

READ NEXT: Labour secures majority of slots to introduce private members’ bills

Pointing to a glass bowl filled with numbered balls, Ms Ghani said: “This is the most transparent way, as you can see.”

She also commented during the draw that “new MPs are having a very lucky streak”.

Mr MacAlister will now have to decide on a bill to put to the house.