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The Labor leader told his MPs to abstain on the third reading of the Covert Sources of Human Intelligence (CHIS) bill. But 34 ignored Sir Keir’s order and opposed the legislation.
The Labor leader faces a series of resignations, with Margaret Greenwood resigning as shadow schools minister and Dan Carden resigning as shadow Treasury minister in order to vote against the bill.
Parliamentary Private Secretaries Navendu Mishra, Kim Johnson, Mary Foy, Rachel Hopkins and Sarah Owen have also resigned.
The group of MPs who opposed the legislation included former Labor leader Jeremy Corbyn, former shadow Chancellor John McDonnell and former shadow Home Secretary Diane Abbott.
The bill would grant wide-ranging legal rights to undercover officers to commit crimes in the course of their work.
Liverpool Walton MP, Mr Carden, said he voted against the legislation as “a matter of conscience”.
He insisted that the bill sets “dangerous new precedents” for the rule of law and civil liberties.
Mishra said he believed that voting against the legislation “sends a clearer message about the strength of our concerns.”
READ MORE: Labor Civil War: Momentum’s call for the founder to leave the group
In his resignation letter to Sir Keir, Mr. Carden said: “We have spoken extensively on these issues and I know that he has decided on yours and the party’s position from your own experience and with sincerity.
“You will understand that as an MP and trade unionist from Liverpool, I share the deep concerns about this legislation of the entire labor movement, human rights organizations and so many who have suffered abuse of state power, from blacklisted workers to families. Hillsborough and Survivors “.
He said he fully supported the Labor leader, adding: “My focus now and for months to come will continue to be representing my Liverpool Walton constituency and fighting for the people of my city as we face the enormous challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic.”
Home Secretary Priti Patel criticized Labor for not backing the bill.
She said: “Once again, the Labor Party has refused to defend those who protect our country and keep us all safe.
“Their leader may have changed, but Labor’s national security cannot yet be trusted.”
The deputies approved the bill in third reading by 313 votes to 98, majority 215.
The bill will come under further scrutiny in the House of Lords.
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