The standards committee has recommended that Margaret Ferrier be suspended from the House of Commons for 30 days, which could lead to a by-election in her Rutherglen constituency.
The recommendation follows her admission of violating Covid rules in September 2020, when she addressed the House of Representatives while awaiting the results of a Covid test. Ferrier took the train back to Glasgow after learning she had tested positive, prior to being stripped of her position as SNP whip.
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The 30-day suspension would be a significant setback for Ferrier and the SNP, who will now observe the situation closely over the next few weeks. If implemented, it could trigger a by-election in her constituency, where the SNP has held a majority since 2015.
Some in opposition have questioned the severity of the punishment, describing it as “disproportionate” and an example of a “witch hunt.” Others have argued, however, that Ferrier’s actions were reckless and endangered the lives of others, necessitating disciplinary action.
Regardless of opinion, the House of Commons will now decide whether or not to implement the suggested suspension. Until then, all eyes are on Ferrier and the possible consequences of her violation of Covid regulations.
