The call follows growing frustration from constituents and political leaders over Dorries’ prolonged absenteeism.
A second local council has now called on Nadine Dorries, the former Conservative MP for Mid Bedfordshire, to immediately resign from her parliamentary seat. The motion, passed by the Mid Bedfordshire District Council, follows mounting pressure after Dorries announced that she would step down from her role but had yet to formally vacate the seat. The decision to ask for her resignation comes as a response to what the council describes as a prolonged period of absenteeism, with Dorries being largely absent from her constituency duties for several months.
The council’s plea for her resignation is in line with calls from local residents and political leaders, who have expressed frustration over the lack of representation in the constituency. Mid Bedfordshire has been without a clear representative for an extended period, and there have been numerous complaints from constituents regarding the lack of engagement with their concerns. Some have even pointed out that the delay in Dorries’ resignation has caused unnecessary uncertainty, especially as the constituency could be left without direct support if a by-election is not called soon.
Dorries, who had previously been a prominent figure in UK politics, serving as Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport under former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, has faced scrutiny for her continued tenure despite having largely retreated from public duties. Her resignation was initially announced back in June but, as of August, she has yet to formally leave the position, adding to the growing concerns about her commitment to the role. Political commentators and local officials have pointed out that the situation could lead to further instability in the region if action is not taken swiftly.
In response, Dorries has made statements suggesting that she is taking time to consider her next steps. However, her delay in resigning has fueled ongoing criticisms that her absence has left Mid Bedfordshire residents without a clear voice in Parliament.
