MP Resignations

[Hairyloon]

What is the normal process when an MP resigns? Do/can they give notice of their intent and continue working? Or is it generally taken with immediate effect?

[atticus]

There have been two examples in the last few weeks of MPs resigning. They were both with immediate effect. That is how it is generally done.

[Hairyloon]

Examples do not prove a rule: that is how they did it, but do they have to do it that way? One certainly did, else be rendered meaningless, the other is at best symbolic and as such probably has better symbolism with immediate effect, but the resignations suggested here have no urgent reason to be acted on, as long as there is time for a by-election before the critical vote.

[atticus]

You asked what is the normal process.

[Hairyloon]

I did, but I also asked specifically if they can give and work their notice. Sorry, I forgot your "one question per post" rule...

The next challenge is to slim dls' suggestion down to fit into a tweet...

[atticus]

There is no such rule. Nor do I pretend that there is.

By all means ask follow-up questions, but please do not pretend they are the questions you had originally asked.

[Smouldering Stoat]

An MP can't give notice that they are resigning and work their notice: technically they can't resign at all. Instead they apply for one of two jobs (from memory, Bailiff of the Chiltern Hundreds and Steward of the Manor of Northstead) which, being offices of profit under the Crown, disqualify them from serving as an MP. Appointment is automatic but, crucially, immediate. I suppose it would be possible to say you were going to do so at some point in the future, bit not to give notice in the proper sense of the word.

[Hairyloon]

Thank you Stoaty.

[dls]

SS got there first

[Smouldering Stoat]

A pedant writes: there have been 3 resignations in the second half of this year: David Cameron, Zac Goldsmith, and Stephen Phillips. Mr Goldsmith is the current Steward of the Chiltern Hundreds and Mr Phillips of the Manor of Newstead. I hope their duties are not too onerous.