Support for 38 Degrees from other MPs

Following Simon Burns’ comments about 38 Degrees members in Parliament last week, other MPs have been commenting. Thankfully they don’t all seem to feel comfortable comparing their voters to zombies! Below is what they’ve had to say.

Fiona Bruce MP, Conservative MP for Congleton, said: “I haven’t heard the exact words [of Simon Burns] but can assure you that I think 38 Degrees does a service in enabling constituents to contact their MPs , so that we really know how people are feeling about issues; such communications are critical for me….. So keep communicating – only then can we together effect positive change!”

Tim Farron MP, MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale and President of the Liberal Democrats, said: “I don’t think 38 Degrees members, or anyone else who takes the trouble to contact me, is a zombie. It’s a totally inappropriate way for an elected politician to talk about their voters. We should be encouraging people to get involved in the political process not insulting those who do.”

Stella Creasy MP, Labour MP for Walthamstow, said: “Campaigning organisations like 38 Degrees are playing a useful role in energising Britain’s political process by encouraging the public to engage with their MPs – it’s up to us to then develop the debate and discussion they start with those we represent, either online or offline and whether we agree with them or not. Rather than calling people zombies and dismissing their concerns, ministers may wish to reflect on why their healthcare proposals have generated such a strong response from their constituents.”

Natascha Engel MP, Labour MP for North East Derbyshire and chair of the Backbench Business Committee, said: “When voters take the trouble to contact their MP, we should be welcoming that and encouraging them to engage further. We certainly shouldn’t be calling them names. I’ve engaged with 38 degrees members in my constituency and they certainly don’t seem like zombies to me.”

What do you think about what these MPs have said? Have you heard from other MPs about what they think about Simon Burns’ comments? Share your thoughts below.