Eight MPs have now resigned from Labour citing concerns over Brexit and Antisemitism The group of Eight have established a new party called the "Independent Group.
Controversially the group has established itself as a private company. Gemini A Ltd. was incorporated last month by Gavin Shuker MP, who is its sole director. Many Labour supporters believe the failure to register as a political party with the Electoral Commission is an attempt to avoid publishing the names of its donors.
The group has said it intends to voluntarily disclose donations in line with the law governing political parties, only accepting money from UK donors and naming individuals who give more than £7,500. Its current mission statement states:
"Our primary duty as Members of Parliament is to put the best interests of our constituents and our country first. Yet like so many others, we believe that none of today’s political parties are fit to provide the leadership and direction needed by our country.
Our aim is to pursue policies that are evidence-based, not led by ideology, taking a long-term perspective to the challenges of the 21st century in the national interest, rather than locked in the old politics of the 20th century in the party’s interests.
As an Independent Group we aim to recognise the value of healthy debate, show tolerance towards different opinions and seek to reach across outdated divides and build consensus to tackle Britain’s problems." https://goo.gl/N3fM8o Clearly the Group has already failed to meet the tenets of its own moral vision. ""Our primary duty as Members of Parliament is to put the best interests of our constituents and our country first. " The MPs in question Chuka Umunna, Luciana Berger, Mike Gapes, Angela Smith, Chris Leslie, Ann Coffey, Gavin Shuker and Joan Ryan all campaigned as Labour Party candidates. They accepted the Labour Party Manifesto and were elected by their constituents on this basis. If the Independent Group members are convinced they are working in the best interests of their constituents they would put themselves forward for a people's vote, They would declare by-elections and stand before their local electorate. Unfortunately all they have achieved is "a superior moral justification for selfishness". Perhaps we should all be asking if it really is all about the money!
