Scott Benton, an MP formerly affiliated with the Conservatives, faces a substantial suspension from Parliament, potentially lasting 35 days, due to what's described as a severe violation
of standards.
An official report from the standards committee highlighted a grave concern, indicating that Benton had conveyed a message insinuating corruption and being "up for sale."
This suspension, if approved by fellow MPs, might trigger a by-election in Benton's Blackpool South constituency. He currently operates as an independent MP following the withdrawal of the Tory whip earlier this year.
The issue arose when Benton engaged with individuals he believed to be gambling industry investors but turned out to be undercover reporters. In this encounter, he was recorded offering to influence ministers and submit parliamentary inquiries.
As part of the penalty, Benton could face a loss of salary throughout the suspension period. Moreover, a suspension exceeding 10 days, once sanctioned by the House of Commons, prompts a recall petition. Should 10% of voters in his constituency sign, it would instigate a by-election.
Benton's current majority in the constituency stands at 3,690, making it a prime target for the Labour Party in a general election.
The Labour Party has criticized the situation, with Shadow Leader Lucy Powell describing the report as "damning" and part of a broader pattern of issues within the Conservative party.
This development comes in the wake of another potential by-election for the Conservatives in Wellingborough following the suspension of former MP Peter Bone due to allegations of bullying and sexual misconduct.
The report by the Commons Standards Committee highlighted Benton's communication of a damaging message about parliamentary standards, tarnishing the reputation of MPs collectively. Despite Benton's assertion that he hadn't agreed to breach rules during the meeting, the committee concluded that his statements suggested a readiness to contravene regulations for financial gain.
Benton defended himself by stating he believed he hadn't breached the rules and expressed regret for his comments, acknowledging the meeting as a lapse in judgment.
The severity of Benton's potential suspension underscores the critical importance of upholding integrity within Parliament, with ramifications that could significantly impact his constituency's political landscape. Photo by David Woolfall, Wikimedia commons.