…By Henry George for TDPel Media.
Rishi Sunak, the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, faces the possibility of another by-election as former Government whip Chris Pincher is recommended for an eight-week suspension following allegations of drunkenly groping two men.
The Standards Committee released a report describing Pincher’s conduct as “profoundly damaging” and “especially grave” due to its abuse of power.
The incident occurred at London’s exclusive Carlton Club when Pincher was the Conservative deputy chief whip, contributing to the downfall of Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
Committee Concludes Unwanted Sexual Misconduct and Abuse of Power
The committee upheld allegations that Pincher “groped” two men, determining that his actions in June of the previous year were “unwanted, inappropriate, and upsetting.”
The report characterizes the case as an “egregious case of sexual misconduct” and states that his behavior was completely inappropriate, causing significant damage to the individuals involved and representing an abuse of power.
Pincher’s actions violated the MPs’ code of conduct, reflecting negatively on the reputation and integrity of the House of Commons.
Eight-Week Suspension and Possible Recall Petition
The recommended eight-week suspension is one of the longest ever suggested, surpassing the 10-day threshold that could trigger a recall petition in Pincher’s Staffordshire seat.
If the report is approved by the wider House of Commons, voters could potentially expel him.
The committee consists of MPs from different parties and lay members.
Traumatic Impact and Pincher’s Response
Testimonies from the complainant and a witness detail the traumatic impact of Pincher’s actions.
The complainant describes the incidents as traumatic and mentions the significant effect on their sleep and anxiety.
Pincher denies breaching the code of conduct but expresses genuine contrition for his actions, although he cannot recall the specific events due to heavy intoxication.
Calls for Resignation and PM’s Response
Deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner calls on Pincher to resign as an MP, criticizing the Conservative Party for protecting him despite previous investigations into his conduct.
The Liberal Democrats urge Prime Minister Boris Johnson to vote in favor of suspending Pincher when the report reaches the Commons.
Pincher resigned as a government whip following the incident and lost the Tory whip, currently sitting in the Commons as an independent.
Potential Recall Petition and By-Elections
If 10% of Tamworth voters sign a potential recall petition, the Conservatives will have to defend another constituency they won in 2019, adding to their challenges amid declining national polls.
Three by-elections are already scheduled for July 20, triggered by the resignations of Boris Johnson, Nigel Adams, and David Warburton.