Tory backbenchers seek to help North Shropshire MP avoid 30-day suspension and possible byelection
Supporters of a Conservative MP found to have committed an “egregious” breach of lobbying rules are pushing for a free vote to help him avoid suspension from the Commons and want to scrap the watchdog that handed down the punishment, describing it as a “kangaroo court”.
They told the Guardian a “rearguard action” was mounting to help Owen Paterson escape the 30-day suspension and subsequent possible byelection if 10% of constituents in his North Shropshire seat signed a recall petition.
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