In a stunning political U-turn that has left former colleagues and constituents astounded, ex-MP Douglas Carswell has launched a scathing attack on the very institution he once served – declaring the House of Commons 'pointless' and calling for its abolition.
From Insider to Critic
The former UKIP and Conservative MP, who represented Clacton for over a decade, made the extraordinary comments during a confrontation with journalist Michael Crick. Carswell, who famously defected from the Tories to UKIP in 2014, now believes Parliament has become irrelevant.
'What is the point of the House of Commons? It's a pointless institution,' Carswell stated bluntly, adding that he would 'abolish it' if given the chance.
Hypocrisy Accusations Fly
The remarks have sparked fury among political commentators and former associates, who were quick to point out the apparent hypocrisy. Carswell earned approximately £1.3 million in salary and expenses during his parliamentary career between 2005 and 2017.
'He was happy to take the money and serve for years, but now he tells us it's pointless,' one critic noted. 'It's the ultimate betrayal of everyone who voted for him.'
Brexit Architect's Changing Views
As one of the key architects of Brexit and a leading figure in the UK Independence Party, Carswell was instrumental in pushing the referendum that ultimately took Britain out of the European Union. His latest comments represent a significant departure from his previous staunch defence of parliamentary democracy.
During the encounter, Carswell also criticised the calibre of contemporary MPs, suggesting they lack the competence to govern effectively. His solution? A radical overhaul of Britain's political system that would see the Commons replaced entirely.
Political Backlash
The reaction from political figures has been overwhelmingly critical. Many have questioned why Carswell didn't express these views during his 12 years in Parliament, when he could have attempted to implement reforms from within.
Political analyst Dr Emma Sanderson commented: 'This is either a genuine crisis of conscience about our political institutions or a cynical attempt to remain relevant after leaving frontline politics. Either way, it's deeply damaging to public trust in democracy.'
The controversy raises uncomfortable questions about the relationship between politicians and the institutions they serve, and what happens when former insiders turn against the system that nurtured their careers.
