§ David WinnickTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions if he will introduce legislation to vacate the seats of Members who have changed party affiliation. [23947]
§ Dr. WhiteheadThe basis of elections to this House is that the electorate is invited to vote for candidates and not the political party they may represent. We have no plans to seek amending legislation to require Members who change their political affiliation to vacate their seats. It is for the representative to determine whether they wish to test the strength of their position by vacating their seat and re-submitting themselves for election.