Double-jobbing bill axed in Westminster

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Wednesday, 19 January 2022 13:12

By Q Radio News/ PA

The Government will withdraw an amendment to the Northern Ireland (Ministers, Elections, and Petitions of Concern) Bill which would allow politicians to hold “double jobs”.

The amendment, due to be debated in the House of Lords on Wednesday, would allow MPs to retain their seats in Westminster while being elected to the Northern Ireland Assembly.

At Prime Minister’s Questions, Conservative MP for North Dorset Simon Hoare said: “The vast majority of people and indeed politicians across Northern Ireland believe that whatever the question, double jobbing is not the answer.

“Can I urge the Prime Minister to listen to the majority and ask him not to move the Government amendment in the other place later today?”

Boris Johnson replied: “I am advised that I think the amendment in question is going to be withdrawn.”