An SNP MP has launched a blistering attack on the Conservative Party, accusing them of deploying a 'shocking' and deliberate strategy to force MPs out of their roles through a toxic combination of relentless abuse and impossible workloads.
Kirsty Blackman, the party's deputy leader in the House of Commons, claimed the Tories are creating a 'hostile environment' designed to exhaust and intimidate elected representatives, making their positions untenable. The Aberdeen North MP stated that the current political climate is the most vicious she has ever witnessed.
A System Under Strain
Blackman's comments come amidst a growing exodus of MPs from across the political spectrum who have announced they will not stand in the next general election. Many have cited the unbearable pressure, threatening behaviour from the public, and an unsustainable work-life balance as primary reasons for quitting.
'The amount of casework and the number of people getting in touch has gone through the roof,' Blackman explained, highlighting a system buckling under the weight of a cost-of-living crisis and the complex fallout from Brexit.
Cross-Party Concern and a Call for Change
The issue transcends party lines. Former Labour shadow chancellor John McDonnell recently echoed similar concerns, revealing he would have seriously reconsidered standing for election if he had known about the 'utter crap' and dangerous threats MPs now face.
This growing consensus points to a deepening crisis within British democracy. Blackman is now calling for a fundamental review of MPs' roles, resources, and security provisions. She argues that without significant change, the pool of talented individuals willing to serve in public office will continue to shrink, to the detriment of the nation's political health.
The Conservative Party has been contacted for comment regarding these serious allegations.
