The MP for Enfield Southgate helped to sink tax credit and Sunday Trading changes – and now has eye on the Government’s housing benefit plans for young people.
Nicky Morgan also didn’t vote, along with Ben Howlett and Nick Herbert.
These often under-recognised services provide essential support to a wide range of this country’s vulnerable citizens.
He regrets the resignation of IDS, condemns Liam Fox, and says the press has grotesquely exaggerated the Government’s difficulties.
Twenty five Tory MPs joined Labour and the SNP in opposing liberalisation, and provided the Government’s margin of defeat.
Cameron’s leadership, the Coalition, Europe. It was meant to be a time of Tory schism. It hasn’t been, so far.
The Prime Minister’s victory oration in Manchester beat two celebrated maiden speeches and a cussed defence of the Speaker.
The number of rebels has risen; it is concentrated among post-2005 intake Tories, and in seats that are either marginal or were until recently.
Tory MPs would have forced changes to Osborne’s tax credit plan in any event. Are they really up for the tough decisions that deficit reduction requires?
Plus: Portaloos for the Lords Car Park. My ancestor’s exploits at Agincourt. The Spectre of Mel Stride. And: Priti Patel at the Male, Pale and Stale.
“I hope we will see again those gems of prudence and wise judgement that drew me to the Conservative Party before it is too late.”
Plus: What Heidi Allen said about him. And George Osborne. And Theresa May. Plus: Yes, Nicky Morgan could be the next Conservative leader.
On the surface, this intake looks different from those that have preceded it – and is in some respects. But beneath it, this is in many ways a very traditional Tory group.