Otley MP quizzes PM about boundary changes (From Wharfedale Observer)

Otley MP quizzes PM about boundary changes

9:00am Monday 17th September 2012 in Local news

Otley’s MP has challenged the Prime Minister to drop controversial plans for constituency boundary changes.

Greg Mulholland (Lib Dem, Leeds North West) made the plea in the House of Commons last week after Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg had confirmed the House of Lords reform his party had been pushing for could not be delivered during this Parliament.

Under the coalition Government’s agreement, the Conservatives were supposed to back the Upper House reform plans in return for receiving Liberal Democrat backing for their boundary change proposals.

But the Lib Dem leader-ship withdrew its support for the reforms following the collapse, in August, of its attempts to achieve an elected House of Lords.

Mr Mulholland, address-ing Mr Clegg in the Comm-ons, said: “In light of his dignified and statesman-like statement accepting that House of Lords reform will not happen, is it not time for the Prime Minister to follow suit and make a similarly dignified statement to say he accepts the boundary changes will not happen, because they will not?”

Mr Clegg responded: “Legislation on boundary reviews stands, so the process continues.

“It is not in my power to stop that without reversing the primary legislation altogether. When and if the matter comes to a vote, I have made it clear what the voting intentions of the members of my party within the coalition Gover-nment will be.”

The Boundary Commis-sion’s revised proposals are due to be published on October 16.