members of parliament resigning

[misto]

Is there an expert on Parliament law out there who can clarify for me this business of MP`s resigning. I always thought they were not allowed to go without taking "The Chiltern Hundreds!" or whatever. Also , how can he stand again for the same party? Many thanks

[R1Geezer]

MP's cannot resign, however they cannot be an MP if they hold an office of profit under the crown. The chiltern hundreds is a sort of dummy office that they can apply for so they can relinquish their MP ship.

[dundurn]

There is another office, the Manor of Northstead, which provides the same 'get out clause' for a departing MP. I think they are used alternately.

[whiffey]

Also, in current context, can DD retract his resignation when he realises what a huge hole he has shot in his foot ?

[R1Geezer]

yes he can retract but that would make him look and even bigger tw&t!

[Gromit]

The Manor of Northstead route is part of the Chiltern Hundreds process. The current incumbent of the dungeon is non other than Tony Liar.


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chiltern_Hundreds

[Lucy Thomas]

r1geezer, 'an even bigger tw&t'.

[R1Geezer]

what's put your knickers in a twist Lucy?