THERE is a very obvious ulterior motive behind the move by Rees-Mogg to insist that MPs return to Westminster. There is no way that the 650 MPs can be accommodated in the debating chamber of the House of Commons while still maintaining social distancing. Therefore the government cannot be held to account and proper debate cannot continue because many MPs will have to be deprived of a place in the debating chamber.

The only way proper debate and scrutiny of the government can happen is if MPs stay at home and take part in the proceedings by internet. Anything else is a complete failure of democracy.

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Rees-Mogg says MPs have to lead by example. Well, he should be leading by example and following the social distancing that is still in place even in England. That can’t happen with 650 bodies crammed into that very small space.

The truth is that the Tories don’t want anyone in the chamber other than themselves. That way they can do what they like. It will suit them very well to be able to carry on without scrutiny but will suit no-one else.

Charlie Kerr
Glenrothes