How is it right that an MP voted as a representative of one party can at their own will swap parties but keep their seat? I get if they feel strongly about something they have to take a stand, fine so resign.
The argument is we voted for them to represent us, not the party. Although I would personally favour an extension of the right of constituents to start a recall petition provided it didn't become too easy (otherwise we'd have by-elections weekly).
Sort of get that, but most people elected are elected off the back of a Party mandate with a personal touch thrown in. Just think if they resign it should be redone at the minute as an individual they can have their cake and eat it.
Its not right but its also a bit more complicated. At what point do you trigger a by election When they actually join another party if they just resign the whip if they have the whip withrdawn if they vote against the party in a whipped vote ? rightly or wrongly we currently vote for the candidate not the party so its difficult to argue that they should face an election if they disagree with the party they are representing If we used PR like in the European elections it would be a bit clearer
Imo a general election is unavoidable. The country is badly fractured. Total mess. The Hoc will force a GE very soon by bri hing down this govt.
we can but hope though Labour is such a mess I dont know what sort of outcome we will get . At least in Scotland I guess its easy for you to decide how to vote
i'm tired, but originally read that as "MPs swapping panties" though i guess it's still pretty common ;-)
