What does Dr Richard Taylor have to say about being an Independent MP?

Today’s Independent carries a question and answer article with Dr Richard Taylor, The Independent MP for Wye Forest, who says “Thank goodness I do not have to join a party.”

The article presents questions from members of the public to Dr Taylor and his answers.  Here are the first few;

What’s it like being the only MP anyone still respects? DANIEL LUFF, Wigan

I am very flattered to have respect. I am quite sure that when the details of all MPs are known, there will be a lot of others who have not used the system for personal gain.

I remember you winning your seat with a campaign to save Kidderminster Hospital, but I can’t remember what happened next. Did your campaign succeed? If so, will you be standing down? FARAH PERRIN, Dundee

Kidderminster Hospital was drastically downgraded in September 2000, before I was elected in June 2001. Since my election, a wide range of elective surgery has returned to Kidderminster and there have been improvements to urgent care, but I continue to fight for more.

Have you ever made any regrettable expenses claims? ALEX MURTY, Leeds

No. I have published my expenses online, so you can see for yourself.

Is it true that the atmosphere in Westminster is one in which suicide would not be surprising, or is it the ridiculous exaggeration I suspect? GORDON HARRISON, Cheshunt, Hertfordshire

I hope it is an exaggeration. However, I am worried at the unfair pressure being put on staff in the Fees Office.

Do you think the anger on expenses is going overboard? LILA HARRIS, London

No, because it is also anger against a failing parliamentary system on the wider issues of holding the Government to account.

Do you think it’s a disadvantage to getting things done in Westminster for your constituents that you’re not part of any party? NEIL WISE, London

No.

Would you consider joining the Jury Team independent coalition? YVETTE UNWIN, Durham

I have made my support for the Jury Team very clear.

Do you think there should be a general election? THOMAS CURZON, Poole, Dorset

Yes, but perhaps in the autumn of this year rather than immediately.

To read the full article go to the Independent HERE