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Re: The Chronicles of Rishi
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-englan...shire-68348594
Quote:
Scott Benton: Lobbying scandal MP loses suspension appeal
Rishi Sunak faces the prospect of another difficult by-election after an independent panel upheld a 35-day suspension of MP Scott Benton.
The Blackpool South MP, who was caught in a lobbying scandal, has lost his appeal against the move.
MPs will vote on triggering a recall petition that could force a new poll.
Mr Benton was caught breaching Commons rules by offering to lobby ministers and table parliamentary questions on behalf of gambling investors.
He was elected as a Conservative in 2019 with a 3,690 majority but currently sits as an independent.
Mr Benton said he was "deeply disappointed" by the decision and claimed there had been a "lack of integrity" throughout the process, which was "prone to regular leaks at every stage".
The MP appealed against both the finding and the suspension, but a report by an independent panel upheld the Standards Committee's original decision, saying there had been "no procedural flaw" in the process.
The panel also described Mr Benton's arguments as "misconceived or erroneous", finding the sanction was "neither unreasonable nor disproportionate".
The finding means MPs will vote on whether to implement the recommended suspension which, if supported, would trigger a recall petition and a potential by-election in Mr Benton's seat.
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There is always light.
If only we’re brave enough to see it.
If only we’re brave enough to be it.
If my post is in bold and this colour, it's a Moderator Request.
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