The SNP has said the Tories must abandon plans to shut down virtual participation in Westminster – as a new poll reveals the overwhelming majority of the public oppose the move.
Polling by YouGov, conducted yesterday, shows sixty-eight per cent (68%) of people in Scotland oppose calls for all MPs to return to Parliament physically.
Across Britain sixty per cent (60%) of people oppose the move – including a majority in all demographics and voting groups.
Commenting, SNP Westminster Deputy Leader Kirsty Blackman MP (pictured) said:
“The Tory government must abandon its reckless plans to shut down virtual participation in Westminster.
“The overwhelming majority of people oppose the move, which would increase the risk of infection in communities and effectively lock Scotland out of Parliament.
“It is vital that full virtual participation continues so that all MPs can do their job – representing our constituents and holding the UK government to account.
“The clear message in Scotland and across three of the four nations is – ‘Stay at home to protect the NHS and save lives’.
“Any move to force MPs to go against public health advice, and travel back and forth hundreds of miles across the UK to Westminster, would disrespect the devolved nations – and could put lives at risk.
“It’s time for Westminster Tories to join the 21st century and accept these reforms, which have been shown to work.
“Virtual participation must continue throughout this public health emergency.”
