Make it law to call a by-election if an MP changes party or becomes independent
We ask the Government to introduce legislation requiring any MP who defects to another party, or leaves their party to sit as an independent, to automatically trigger a by-election. Voters should have the right to approve or reject their continued mandate.
Signatures
8
signatures
Government response threshold (10,000) · 8/10,000
Debate threshold (100,000) · 8/100,000
- 31 JUL 2025Petition rejectedduplicate
You may wish to sign this petition which calls for a similar action: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/711480
- 14 JUL 2025Petition created
Background
When MPs change parties or become independents, they are no longer representing the manifesto or values they were elected on. This undermines trust in our democratic system. Constituents should have the right to re-evaluate their support through a by-election, ensuring proper accountability and representation. MPs work for the public — not party leaders or themselves. This goes for every party in Britain, no exceptions. The people must have a voice.