In view of the imminent dissolution of Parliament, I have sent this notice to the organisers of the Remembrance Sunday services in my constituency in Wokingham and Arborfield:
“Next week I will cease to be Wokingham’s MP on the dissolution of Parliament. All MPs lose the job and the right to use the title , the portcullis symbol and address of the House of Commons.
I was looking forward to attending the Remembrance Day service and presentation of wreaths. I have already made a donation to the British Legion to secure wreaths with the Portcullis emblem on it to lay on behalf of the constituents of Wokingham.
I think in the circumstances I have to send my apologies for the service as I am strongly advised that former MPs must not lay wreaths associated with Parliament during an election period.
I would suggest I lay my wreath after the election should I be returned to Parliament.
Yours sincerely
The Rt Hon Sir John Redwood MP”
October 31, 2019
Sir John
Can someone from your office not lay the wreath on behalf of the constituency of Wokingham?
It seems a shame to allow purdah to impose on Rememberence Sunday.
Perhaps the new Speaker can issue guidance to such effect.
November 3, 2019
No reason why you cannot lay a wreath as a private citizen is there, or even turn up as part of the crowd just like anybody else for the service, surely.
Reply The wreath I have bought has the Parliamentary symbols on it.
November 3, 2019
Can you not just simply change the labels John, seems a shame not to use it !
Reply Elections are about fairness. As I will not then be an MP I cannot lay a wreath on behalf of the community.