Rebel Tory MP postpones decision on resignation
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.SIR RICHARD BODY, the maverick Tory MP, last night drew back from prompting a damaging by-election as he put off for 12 months a decision on whether to step down.
The temporary climb-down, following pressure to stay on from his constituency officials and Sir Norman Fowler, the party chairman, removes the immediate threat of a by-election that could have seen the Government's overall Commons majority reduced to 15.
But it leaves John Major and government whips with the problem of controlling the unpredictable Euro-rebel for the next year, during which the Prime Minister must push through a Bill to increase Britain's financial contribution to the European Union.
Sir Richard, 66, MP for Holland with Boston, who was labelled a 'barmy' by Mr Major in remarks during his recent Far East tour, had threatened for some weeks to resign and take up a publishing contract.
The Prime Minister was reported to have said: 'When I hear the name Body, I hear the sound of white coats flapping.'
A fervent Maastricht treaty rebel who believes Britain should never have entered the European Community, Sir Richard denied last night that the remarks had upset him. 'I don't give a fig about that,' he said, although constituency officials are believed to have pressed Sir Norman Fowler for an apology.
He is also unhappy about Mr Major's determination to discipline dissidents, and believes whips have threatened rebels with withdrawing the party whip, which prevents re-adoption by local parties at elections. He has also questioned government economic policy and with a group of economists is preparing a pamphlet claiming the economy is heading for mass unemployment.
His local party was delighted at the decision, revealed after a special meeting with constituency officials.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments