Action

[maggiebee]

SNP MP Margaret Ferrier has been suspended from the party for travelling from Scotland to Westminster after experiencing Covid symptoms then taking the train back after testing positive.

The Rutherglen and Hamilton West MP admitted there was “no excuse” for travelling hundreds of miles on public transport in breach of coronavirus restrictions.

Her actions were greeted with astonishment by her political opponents who said she was guilty of putting train passengers, rail staff, MPs and House of Commons staff at risk.

SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford said he was suspending the whip from Ms Ferrier after the MP released a statement apologising for her actions, which included travelling by train to the House of Commons to take part in a Covid debate.

Silly woman, but glad to see that prompt action has been taken. MPs must lead by example.

[Old_Geezer]

As an MP she ought to be careful to either be seen supporting the official government stance, or standing up as a rebel against it. Maybe by 'risking' the journey she was try to do just that.

[Neveracrossword]

There's been some discussion on this on Retrocop's earlier thread.

[anneasquith]

I wonder was she rushing home to Scotland for an eye test ?

[youngmafbog]

Do Scottish people need an eye test to get on a train then?

What a daft pop.

[anneasquith]

I don’t know her precise movements but, I don’t think she stopped of at a castle .

[iluvmargie]

Well done Maggiebee, you got in before the Scots amongst us were slated after all the moaning you all did re. Cummins. Hilarious !!!

[maggiebee]

Listened to the First Minister's daily update. She said that although Margaret Ferrier was a personal friend she was asking her to resign. She can't force her as an elected MP but hopes she will do the right thing.

[woofgang]

apparently Corbyn broke the rule of six too?

[Mamyalynne]

He did, that was discussed yesterday.

It's extremely hard for the public to sit back and gloss over these disregards by those who should know better.

[New Judge]

//Her actions were greeted with astonishment by her political opponents who said she was guilty of putting train passengers...at risk.//

I doubt that very much. I have been using trains extensively throughout. The railway companies are being paid huge sums to cart around carriages full of fresh air. I've made at least one return railway journey most weeks, sometimes two or three over distances of between fifteen and two hundred miles. I can't say I've seen a train more than about 10% full.

[Sunk]

She is refusing to step down.

Pointy shoe ip backside time!

[tonyav]

And police have launched an investigation.
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/uknews/margaret-ferrier-police-investigate-snp-mp-who-travelled-with-coronavirus/ar-BB19Ei0z

[andy-hughes]

I am unsure why the lady is willing to sacrifice what remains of her personal dignity and self respect by delaying her inevitable resignation, but I suspect she'll be gone by Monday.

[Prudie]

She was indeed a very stupid woman. It has made me wonder if as an MP she flouted the rules because she and they know deep down they are of little value but us cud-chewers still lap them up.

[Khandro]

Obviously a clear case for the building of a wall; but what to call it? Hadrian's ?

[tomus42]

//It has made me wonder if as an MP she flouted the rules because she and they know deep down they are of little value but us cud-chewers still lap them up.//

She flouted the rules firstly because she had a speech to give in parliament and didn't want to miss the opportunity of hearing the sound of her own voice, like all politicians. She then flouted them again because she didn't want to be holed up in a flat in London for two weeks instead of being in the comfort of her own home.