MPs support growing
Just as we were packing our bags - word comes in that the number of MPs either signing the EDM or directly supporting the Bill has grown to 35.
If one of them's yours, e-mail and tell em you love him.
This response from Desmond Swayne MP, forwarded to us from Nick Hughes
"Thank you. I have yet to see the published bill but the principle sounds daft to me.Please feel free to write to Desmond and let him know your thoughts.
If I am guilty of fraud charge me. If my deception has damaded you or anyone else then sue me. Elected representatives are not imune from the criminal and civil law as in some other countries.
In any event elected representarives are properly held to account by voters: if you don't trust me then vote foe somebody else, or stand yourself." DS
Nick's original letter to Desmond follows ;
Dear Desmond Swayne,
I'm writing to you to ask about your position regarding the 'Elected
Representatives (Prohibition Of Deception) Bill'.
As I understand it, so far, you don't have a position on this bill and
I would like to know what that is; since Adam Price MP will be
re-introducing the bill in the next parliamentary session.
If your position is to oppose this bill, then I would respectfully
insist that you reconsider and support the bill, at least in principle.
I feel that a self-regulating parliament (being judge and jury to
itself) is simply not acceptable, and that there should be an
independent, transparent method of legal recourse when MPs have been
found to be lying or deceitful in matters relating to government and
privileges.
The public and business are both held accountable, in law, for
misrepresentation and deceitful practice; so why aren't MPs?
This bill seeks to redress that imbalance - please support it for the
sake of a fairer, more transparent system and renewed public trust in
parliament.
Yours sincerely,
Nicholas Hughes
We'll be back with Parliament on the week of the 6th. Spread the good word.
P.S. Nice post from Webwonder's blog.
P.P.S. Don't forget to sign the petition.
