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In reply to the discussion: With just one word, Labour MPs reveal utter contempt for Corbyn supporters [View all]Denzil_DC
(7,222 posts)I think that's fine.
So the Labour Party needs to follow its own rules if it wants to challenge him!
There is no provision in the Labour constitution for what was just attempted. The vote of confidence is basically a publicity stunt in an attempt to strongarm Corbyn to quit without having to go through the bother of a formal vote, clearing the way for whoever they come up with as an alternative. It is NOT the way you go about changing the leadership if you care about "nomination rules".
Corbyn, as sitting leader, has an automatic right to be on the ballot - they've sought legal advice on this, and been disappointed by the finding. Corbyn didn't invent that rule!
The correct formal way to depose him would be for an alternative candidate to come forward, and secure enough PLP signatures to go to the party for an internal election.
The pressure over the past few days was an attempt to force him to quit so they didn't have to bother with all that. If he's so rubbish and his position is so indefensible, why didn't they do that?
There are reasons why the likes of Andy Burnham (who's looking pretty good right now, not that I've ever been a great fan) want nothing at all to do with this.