ERS: Mischief Makers out in force

Tuesday, 27 July 2010 12:00 AM

The Electoral Reform Society has criticised 40 Conservative MPs who have signed up to an Early Day Motion (EDM) proposing changing the date of the forthcoming referendum on the Alternative Vote.

The move is described by the Society as an attempt to sabotage the referendum in parliament. Recent news suggests that figures in both Labour and Conservative are mobilising forces to block the bill with proposals for both thresholds and date changes discussed in recent days.

Ashley D from the Electoral Reform Society said:

Well the mischief makers are now out in force. This EDM is frankly sabotage dressed up with a few principles. We doubt anyone in Scotland will see the work of these 40 English Conservative MPs as a heartfelt defence of devolution.

The Old Guard want to derail this referendum in parliament. We want a national debate, but it seems some members have little confidence in their own arguments. Labour and Tory MPs are drawing ranks. Those talking Brokeback Coalitions might pause to contemplate the strange bedfellows theyre making to block the passage of this referendum.

[1] 40 Tory 'Brokeback' rebel MPs in first move to scupper voting reform Tory Brokeback rebels scupper voting

[2] Suggestions are that new Labour MP Thomas Doherty will be tabling a similar motion
Clegg facing double blow as Tories revolt on vote reform
Clegg facing double blow

Contacts

For more information, comment or interviews please contact the Societys Director of Communications Ashley D on 07968791684

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