I actually agree with both of you on this one. I think the tradition is showing its age now.Originally Posted by jon1959
As has been said overwhelmingly people vote for parties nowadays and not candidates; some people probably can't remember the name of the candidate they voted for but they will remember the party.
There have been notable exceptions down the years where a candidate/sitting MP has been hugely popular with voters of all colour and persuasions; David Amery was the most recent example. But that situation is the exception rather than the rule.
Nevertheless, it is easy to see why many people feel cheated if an MP has switched sides so I think a by-election would be the fairest outcome for all
Incidentally, it seems Christian Wakeford is not getting a ringing endorsement from all the Labour supporters in Bury South. Apart from the expected excoriating reception from Tory sympathisers, many Labour voters are wary of him and are dubious about the reasons for his defection. Many point out that his recent voting record on Universal Credit etc. has not been compatible with socialist values.
I notice today he has responded to the claims of whip's bullying by William Wragg today by claiming he too had been forced to vote against his convictions through intimidation. I wonder if he is attempting to curry favour?
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