Harlow’s MP, Robert Halfon has defended his vote to reject the Standards Committee’s call for a six-week parliament ban for Owen Paterson just after he announced his resignation as MP.

Mr Paterson was found to have repeatedly lobbied ministers for two companies paying him more than £100,000 per year.

On Wednesday, November 3 the Prime Minister encouraged Conservative MPs to pass a motion in favour of ignoring a suspension for Mr Paterson, prompting accusations of corruption.

Despite a government U-turn with the promise of a new vote on the matter made today (Thursday, November 3), Mr Paterson decided to resign from the House of Commons after negative backlash.

Mr Halfon has defended his vote and feels “concerned” about processes by the Standards Committee.

He clarified that he is not “a close or personal friend of Mr Paterson” and that his vote was not intended as a means of him expressing personal support.

He stated: “Let me be clear that I do not condone any abuse of power or privilege that comes with holding a post within the Government.

“Whether the current standards systems should give Members of Parliament the same or similar rights as apply to those subject to the investigations of alleged misconduct in other workplaces and professions, including the right of representation, examination of witnesses and appeal.”

“In the current system, there is no right of appeal.

“In Mr Paterson’s case, he had nominated seventeen witnesses, none of whom was called to present evidence to the Committee.

“The lack of any appeals process was also a contributing factor in the tragic suicide of Mr Paterson’s wife during the investigations into his conduct which created extenuating circumstances for this case.

“I personally believe that all systems in place to scrutinise any allegations of wrong-doing by MPs’ should enshrine the same rights and presumptions of innocence of those accused as those used in any other workplace. That is only right, and fair, and that is why I supported this amendment yesterday evening.”

Mr Halfon added that he is “pleased” that the Government decided to consult with all parties for a second vote on the matter.