Yesterday’s spectacle in the House of Commons was deeply unedifying. A largely symbolic vote on other nations’ business descended into the farce of constitutional gameplaying, cross-party intrigue and raucous upheaval in the chamber. Sir Lindsay’s amendment selection will do nothing for the Middle East, even if it does give parliamentary sketch writers some stories for the next few days. Yet this incident, highlights a worrying trend – the rising tide of threats and violence against politicians in the UK, and the increasing influence it is having on their decision-making.
Through yesterday’s contributions and commentary, there was a clear thread of concern. Politicians of various parties, persuasion and constituencies feel the threat of violence breathing down their necks. This is affecting them both psychologically and politically. The tussle of the wording of amendments and which should take precedence was informed, if not driven, by MPs looking at the mob.
Keep reading with a 7-day free trial
Subscribe to Joxley Writes to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.