‘No’ vote was strong, there’s all to play for
We
always said the crucial thing about yesterday’s vote would be the
strength of the ‘no’ vote. Before the vote, the media was speculating
that we might get 130, or possibly 150 votes. We surpassed those
expectations and got 175.
Together
with abstentions and stay-aways, it means fully one third of the
Commons did not back the Bill last night. And more Tories voted against
it than for it.
That’s
a serious blow to the Prime Minister, which is why this morning’s
newspapers have focused on the strength of the ‘no’ vote.
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Although
Labour and the Tories promised a ‘free vote’, there have been reports
of severe behind-the-scenes pressure put on MPs by the hierarchy of both
parties. That is shameful, but well done to those brave MPs who
resisted the arm-twisting.
Even
supporters of the Bill spoke about the shocking way the issue is being
rammed through Parliament with unseemly haste. Others said the Bill
doesn’t go far enough because they want civil partnerships opened up to
straight couples – a move that could cost the taxpayer £5bn.
There
will be further votes and speeches in the Commons before the Bill moves
on to the House of Lords. Last night’s strong ‘no’ vote will embolden
the Lords, where the voting arithmetic is very different to the Commons.
Last
night’s vote was important, and I am pleased that we achieved a very
strong ‘no’ vote. The opposition to the Government’s plans has shocked
Westminster insiders, and that opposition is growing.
There’s all to play for, and we will be contacting supporters soon with news on how to take the campaign forward.
To see a list of how MPs voted, click here
Yours sincerely,
Colin Hart
Campaign Director Coalition for Marriage |
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