NDP Member of Parliament Don Davies has announced plans to present a bill that would prohibit MPs from changing political parties without obtaining approval from their constituents through a byelection or by sitting as an Independent until the next general election. This move aims to address recent instances of MPs switching parties, which have benefited Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government and contributed to the Liberals securing a majority.
Although private member’s bills introduced by opposition MPs seldom pass, they serve to highlight important issues. Davies, positioned at number 236 in the private members’ bill draw, will not see immediate debate on his proposed legislation. He is set to provide further details on the bill as Parliament approaches its final sessions before the summer recess.
The current parliamentary session has witnessed several Conservative MPs, including Marilyn Gladu, Matt Jeneroux, Michael Ma, Chris d’Entremont, and former NDP MP Lori Idlout, joining the governing party. While the practice of floor-crossing is a longstanding tradition in Canadian politics, recent polls indicate mixed sentiments among Canadians regarding politicians changing parties between elections.
NDP Leader Avi Lewis recently reaffirmed the party’s opposition to floor-crossing, emphasizing the importance of respecting the democratic will of the people. Lewis suggested that politicians wishing to switch parties should resign, run in a byelection, and seek election under their new party’s banner. He expressed openness to individuals like Steven Guilbeault joining the NDP after resigning from the Liberal Party, highlighting the distinction between party practices.
Davies has previously attempted to amend the Parliament of Canada Act to mandate re-election for MPs crossing the floor, but these efforts have not resulted in legislative changes. The Conservative Party has historically opposed such measures, with Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre indicating support for recall petitions as a means for constituents to remove representatives who switch parties without consulting their electorate.
In a recent statement, Poilievre reiterated his backing for recall petitions, underscoring the need for constituents to have a mechanism to hold MPs accountable for their actions. He emphasized the importance of upholding commitments made to voters and ensuring transparency in political representation.