Baroness Smith: This is a constitutional outrage verging on a coup – and must be challenged
2 min read
Boris Johnson's decision to shut down Parliament is the act of an autocrat not a democrat. Politicians from all parties and none – and in both Houses – must assert the authority of those elected to the Commons, writes Baroness Smith
Despite ongoing speculation that Boris Johnson would try to shut down Parliament before Brexit Day, the formal announcement from No.10 was still deeply shocking and disturbing. Having so often been told that our exit from the European Union was about ‘taking back control’, it appears our new Prime Minister wants that power to reside with him alone.
Lacking the legitimacy of the ballot box, or any public endorsement, Mr Johnson now seeks to thwart the will of the House of Commons by just shutting it down to try to stop elected MPs from doing the job they were elected to. A constitutional outrage, verging on a coup and one that must be challenged.
The action of an autocrat not a democrat, the Prime Minister’s decision is part of a pattern of arrogance that is Trumpesque at heart – far removed from the Churchillian statesmanship that he would like people to believe he possesses. And such an act of political chicanery also risks compromising the political independence of our monarch.
Around the world, Westminster has been admired as the ‘Mother of Parliaments’ but this move from Mr Johnson will embarrass us internationally.
Brexit and the way it has been handled has divided our country and our politics. At the time when we most need calm, moderate, thoughtful leadership – in the national interest – we are now lumbered with a man without either the skills or integrity to hold this any other high office.
Opposition to such an authoritarian approach is unifying people from across the political divide – the Prime Minister’s only support appears to be from the government’s confidence and supply allies, the DUP. That said, anger and outrage will not be enough. Parliamentarians from across all parties and none – and in both Houses – must assert the authority of those elected to the Commons.
I have taken part in two prorogation ceremonies in my four years as leader of the opposition in the Lords. Like many traditions, its roots go way back. Whilst the pomp, ceremony and outfits appear somewhat anachronistic, they are part of a proud historical tradition.
The next prorogation should therefore be uncontroversial – just part of how our Parliament functions. If however, Mr Johnson’s reckless disregard for Parliament goes ahead in the way he clearly wishes it to, it will be anything but.
Baroness Angela Smith of Basildon is Labour Leader in the House of Lords. She tweets @LadyBasildon
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