Another glorious day for our great democracy. Chris Pincher’s resignation has unleashed a deluge of anger, despair and frustration in the Tory WhatsApp groups today. One backbencher texted Mr S to remark darkly of Dowden and Pincher that ‘at least they’re freeing up jobs for the reshuffle.’ Another asks ‘How on earth was he put in the Whips’ Office in charge of MPs’ welfare?’ The mood among their staff is little better too, as shown by the liberal use of the phrase ‘shit-show’ in current conversation.
Now, though, some are standing up and demanding change. Five weeks ago, several parliamentary assistants came together to launch the ‘Conservative staffers for change.’ They penned a letter to the Prime Minster and the (now former) party chairman, Oliver Dowden, demanding change and improved vetting in the selection protest.
In the wake of David Warburton’s immediate suspension after allegations of sexual impropriety, there was some optimism that things would improve. Dowden claimed that changes have been made to the candidate selection process to ensure it is more rigorous and that the partnership between Tory MPs, their staffers and CCHQ would be strengthened. Now though he is gone and the failure to similarly suspend Chris Pincher has led those involved to conclude that their concerns are just not being taken seriously.
With the Westminster rumour-mill in overdrive, the group claims that:
The story concerning Chris Pincher has not come as a surprise. The whip should have been withdrawn immediately. There are serious questions surrounding the Prime Minister’s prior knowledge of Pincher’s misconduct. This case is an example of why felt we had to write the letter.
Jolly good luck to them.
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