MP Continues to Oppose Lobbying Bill

Hywel FrancisAberavon MP Dr Hywel Francis has said he will continue to oppose the policies behind the so-called “Gagging Bill” despite it having passed through Parliament.

Dr Francis said:

“I have consistently spoken out against the so-called ‘Gagging Bill’ since last September and will continue to do so, despite it now having been passed by Parliament. As chair of the Joint Committee on Human Rights I agree with my committee, which believes the Bill has a ‘chilling effect’ on democracy.”

He added:

“My constituents have written to me stating that the new Act will severely restrict the ability of charities and campaigning organizations like Oxfam to be involved in questioning Parliamentary candidates in the run up to the General Election.”