23/01/2004
Lib Dem leader calls for Tonge's resignation
The veteran Liberal Democrat MP, Jenny Tonge, has been asked to step down as the party's frontbench spokesperson for children.
The call came after Dr Tonge said that she could consider carrying out a suicide bomb attack against Israel if she were a Palestinian.
This afternoon Lib Dem leader Charles Kennedy issued a statement calling on the MP for Richmond Park to resign her frontbench post.
Mr Kennedy said: "Her recent remarks about suicide bombers are completely unacceptable. They are not compatible with Liberal Democrat party policies and principles. There can be no justification, under any circumstances for taking innocent lives through terrorism.
"I am sorry to lose Dr Tonge from the frontbench team. She will continue to represent her constituency on the backbenches of the House of Commons."
When Dr Tonge was asked to clarify her comments on BBC 4's Today programme, she stressed that she did not condone terrorism, but repeated her view that she could understand the position of a Palestinian who carried out a suicide bomb attack.
Dr Tonge had already announced her intention to leave the Commons at the next general election.
(gmcg)
The call came after Dr Tonge said that she could consider carrying out a suicide bomb attack against Israel if she were a Palestinian.
This afternoon Lib Dem leader Charles Kennedy issued a statement calling on the MP for Richmond Park to resign her frontbench post.
Mr Kennedy said: "Her recent remarks about suicide bombers are completely unacceptable. They are not compatible with Liberal Democrat party policies and principles. There can be no justification, under any circumstances for taking innocent lives through terrorism.
"I am sorry to lose Dr Tonge from the frontbench team. She will continue to represent her constituency on the backbenches of the House of Commons."
When Dr Tonge was asked to clarify her comments on BBC 4's Today programme, she stressed that she did not condone terrorism, but repeated her view that she could understand the position of a Palestinian who carried out a suicide bomb attack.
Dr Tonge had already announced her intention to leave the Commons at the next general election.
(gmcg)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.