evenhand

Answered by Jo Swinson

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Answered by John Hemming

I don't think the Damian Green investigation will result in any prosecution.  However, that does not resolve the issue that he and Chris Galley are being threatened with prison and have already suffered... Show more »

I don't think the Damian Green investigation will result in any prosecution.  However, that does not resolve the issue that he and Chris Galley are being threatened with prison and have already suffered some short period of arrest for something that is part of an MP holding the executive to account.

What surprises me is the extent to which the Labour Government have decided to wade in  behind the arrests.  It does demonstrate a failure to understand that MPs are acting on behalf of their constituents in raising concerns about government failures and that gagging MPs (as this does) has the effect of gagging their constituents.

I don't think it will be a matter for campaigning on the ground, because it is likely that this particular investigation will simply cease without prosecution.  However, the underlying constitutional question still needs resolution.

Answered by Lynne Featherstone

Thanks for your question evenhand. My decision to campaign on getting decent foot care for the elderly initially came from casework, but as I have spent a lot of time locally visiting old people's homes... Show more »Thanks for your question evenhand. My decision to campaign on getting decent foot care for the elderly initially came from casework, but as I have spent a lot of time locally visiting old people's homes this summer, I see that this is an issue that affect so many people, and is quite easy to rectify. But despite this, basic foot care is not widely available. It's outrageous and it matters to people, so it matters to me. And Lib Dems I think are particularly good at acting on and caring about these local issues. I think the best way to show you what I mean is to have a look at some fellow Lib Dem MPs websites, and in particular the news section:  http://www.vincentcable.org.uk/   http://www.susankramer.org.uk  http://www.tauntonlibdems.org.uk/newslist.php
http://www.juliagoldsworthy.org . Show less »

Answered by Lynne Featherstone

I think it's a bit of a myth that taking "politics" out a difficult situation will lead to a better solution.  As a Liberal Democrat I do believe more in consensus and political systems that force compromise.... Show more »I think it's a bit of a myth that taking "politics" out a difficult situation will lead to a better solution.  As a Liberal Democrat I do believe more in consensus and political systems that force compromise.  But, and this is a big but, you can have as many pragmatic quango councils as you like, but they will amount to nothing until someone has the courage of conviction to follow it through.  The New Deal and the setting up of the State Pension are good example where politicians have succeed in making difficult long term decisions in very political situations.  The government ignores the plight of pensioners struggling with bumper rise in energy and food at its own peril.  I have little doubt people will not be backwards in coming forwards when it comes to the ballot box and punishing anyone who fails to respond to their needs. Show less »