Recall of MPs act

When was it enacted and by who?

Conservatives in 2015

what did this act allow constituents to do?

This Act allows constituents to get rid of their MPs if they found them to have failed to undertake their duties leading to a suspension or committed a crime.

What type of democracy is this?

Direct

Who was removed as an MP from the recall of MPs act and stood for reelection?

Christopher Davies ( Brecon and Radnorshire) was found guilty of claiming false expenses on two accounts and ordered to community service
He was removed as an MP after 19% of his Constituency signed the recall petititon.
He stood for relection in an area that was a conservative strong hold however lost to the liberal democrats

Why is this significant?

It represents how the people remain sovereign and have the power to choose who they want to represent them?

Name an MP that was not removed after a recall petition was triggered?

Ian Paisley Junior after doing work for the sri lanken government and accepting holidays without documenting it, the petition fell 444 votes.

what are the strengths of the recall of MPs act?

-A petition is automatically triggered when there has been an expense issue which is a result of the expense scandal which is a strength of the recall of MPs act as it ensures that MPs will be held accountable.
-An extension of recall beyond what it currently is would harm democracy. It might make MPs more populist as they try to ensure they remain on the right side of public opinion, rather than simply focusing on what is right.

What is a weakness with the recall of MPs act?

It is very rare for an MP to be imprisoned and the act is limited due to the power remaining with parliament
It is the committee of standards that decides wether an MP can remain an MP not the people