David Davis resigns

The news that "Basher" Davis has resigned was a bit of a bolt from the blue wasn't it? Amazing to find someone acting on principle over something like this, although those of us who cheered on Davis in the Tory leadership contest are perhaps less surprised than others

What is now needed is for other MPs of principle to do the same thing - this will keep the pressure on the government as high as possible. John Redwood has applauded Davis's actions, and I've left a comment on his blog in which I ask whether he will follow suit. I wonder what the reaction will be? And what about the Labour rebels and the LibDems?

Update:

I've just written to Diane Abbott along the same lines.

Update:

Redwood says no. 

Comments

[Kit]

He looks as if his plan has worked as he has now has a commitment from Cameron that the Tories will repeal the 42 day detention. Also after the next election there will be a lot of liberal leaning new Tory MPs so they may go further.

[Bishop Hill]

I'm still trying to work out whether the point was to force Cameron to agree to repeal 42 days or whether it was bigger than that. It doesn't make sense to me for Cameron to refuse to agree to repeal and then when DD resigns, to instantly say that he will.

[Kit]

I've changed my mind after listening to Dominic Grieve. I think this is a genuine matter of principle. He is drawing a line in the sand. The whittling away of our rights has gone too long without debate. We need this debate and I hope he is successful.

[Bishop Hill]

Yes, that's the conclusion I've reached too.