NDP bill would ban floor-crossing

OTTAWA – New Democrat MPs Mathieu Ravignat (Pontiac) and Peter Stoffer (Sackville-Eastern Shore) tabled a Private Member’s Bill today to prevent MPs from changing political affiliations during their term.

“Members shouldn’t play petty politics and think only of their career, by changing political parties whenever they like,” said Ravignat. “MPs were elected personally, and under their party banner. We must ensure that members are accountable to their constituents.”

If adopted, this bill will prevent Members of Parliament from changing their party affiliation during their mandate. A member who wishes to leave their party would either have to sit as an independent or run in a by-election.

This bill was introduced by Peter Stoffer in the last Parliament.

“I am happy to support my colleague who is bringing the issue back to Parliament,” said Stoffer. “At the present time, any member can cross the House without accountability to their constituents. We are determined to prevent this from happening once and for all.”