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19Jun09

MP's RESIGNATION

I must respond to the over reaction in the letters pages (11Jun09) over Bev Hughes resigning as a minister and standing down as an MP at the next General Election. I have merely highlighted the very unusual and unfortunately damaging timing... to her, the Prime Minister, and Stretford and Urmston residents.

Anyone who knows me or has seen my web site, will know I believe strongly in public service and in the way that we treat each other. Life is too short to be petty or rude. It is important then not to over react to media stories, or indeed when the MP, rather than answering the points raised, makes personally-based attacks in reaction. I do despite this, wish her the very best for the future.

There is nothing "mean spirited" in the questions I have asked of the Labour MP and I know many people wish someone would ask them, and moreover have an answer. For clarity, I ask them again:

Why announce your resignation two days before local and European elections? Why not wait until after the polls close so that it won't affect the vote? And why announce your retirement during the very height of the expenses scandal. Even if expenses have nothing to do with it, it gives the impression, to some, that expenses are the reason behind resignation. And why not make your expenses available, particularly when asked repeatedly by local media to do so and when other MPs have?

These are valid questions that should be asked in a democracy that works, and I would hope for a grown-up debate about them.

At the very least her timing gives an unfortunate impression... that perhaps other political forces are at work that have 'pushed' her into the timing of this decision - that is at least the impression of ordinary people like myself who do not inhabit the "Westminster village".

I'm afraid in public life, perception is reality and Bev Hughes and the Labour Party have much to answer for.

If we are to treat each other, and the democratic system we fought so hard to defend, with respect, then it is only proper for Labour MPs to engage with the public debate, not try to dismiss it as "mean spirited" and resort to personal attacks. People can see straight through that kind of politics.

Mark Versallion
Conservative Parliamentary Candidate