Conservatives Criticise MPs’ Holiday Decision

Christopher Pincher says Brian Jenkins should not have voted for another long holiday

Local Conservative Parliamentary Spokesman, Christopher Pincher, has criticised Labour MPs for voting for another long holiday in February, just three weeks after returning from their Christmas break.  He also said that Tamworth constituency MP, Brian Jenkins, should not have voted for a holiday.  Tamworth constituency covers part of Lichfield District south east of the city.

MPs voted 248 to 194 in favour of a two week break from 10 February to 22 February.  Only one Conservative MP voted for the break which was pushed through by Labour MPs including Mr. Jenkins.  In stark contrast the Conservative MP for neighbouring Lichfield, Michael Fabricant, voted against the plan.

Mr. Pincher said:

“I am very sorry that Mr. Jenkins has chosen to vote himself and his colleagues another holiday.  Whilst I know that Members of Parliament use some of their holiday to work in their constituencies, the fact is that their number of holidays has increased markedly in recent years. At a time when many local people are finding it hard to make ends meet, the last thing we need to hear about is another holiday for MPs.  They need to show they are more in touch with public opinion. In contrast Lichfield MP Michael Fabricant opposed the long break.  I think others should have followed his example.”

Conservatives will look to reduce the holiday time for MPs as they focus on the measures necessary to rebuild both the economy and public trust in parliament.