Reaction after Sir Keir Starmer linked to Scarborough role

The Chancellor of the Exchequer appointed the former prime minister as Steward and Bailiff of the Three Chiltern Hundreds on September 1.

This meant ​he would not be appointed Crown Steward and Bailiff of the Manor of Northstead in Scarborough.

Despite its grand title, the unpaid position carries no responsibilities.

READ MORE: Decision on Keir Starmer’s appointment to job in North Yorkshire

This appointment serves as a ‘legal fiction’ allowing MPs to sidestep the rule prohibiting them from resigning directly.

Under a House of Commons resolution from March 2, 1624, MPs can only vacate their seats through death, disqualification, or expulsion.

This means Sir Keir joins a list of MPs who have used a similar method to resign.

In July, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage was appointed Crown Steward and Bailiff of the Manor of Northstead, Scarborough, after deciding to resign and fight to reclaim his seat.

Sir Keir had announced his intention to resign as the MP for Holborn and St Pancras.

The position of Steward and Bailiff of the Three Chiltern Hundreds has traditionally been used by MPs wishing to resign from the House of Commons.

The prospect of Sir Keir being linked to a role in Scarborough led to a mixed reaction from readers of The Press. 

Tony Fisher noted: “It’s not a job. It’s a title given to a ceremonial position.”

Levi Tyso commented: “Not a shining political career, but good luck to him.”

Nicholas Hodgson added: “Looking at his CV there must be hundreds of people better qualified than him and cheaper. But some jobs do not need ability, just words like his last job.”