MP Allan Dorans has refused to return to London tomorrow to vote after blasting demands to travel as “total madness.”
House of Commons Leader Jacob Rees-Mogg has told MPs they must come to Westminster in person instead of making their voices heard remotely.
But Mr Dorans said there is a danger of spreading the coronavirus from heading to the capital.
The Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock politician is one of a majority of SNP MPS who have decided to stay in Scotland and continue working from home. A small number from the party are making the trip south.
Commenting on pressure for MPs to be physically present in London, Mr Dorans said: “This is total madness as it goes against the advice of the Scottish Government not to travel and to work from home if possible to continue to slow the spread of the Coronavirus, protect the NHS and save lives.”
Referring to SNP MP plans he added: “The vast majority will not travel. I accept that some will take the view that none of us should go and some wiIl believe we should all attend. I understand both arguments. I will not be going at this time but should the risk be reduced or guidance changed at a later date then I will obviously reconsider.”
It is proposed that MP remote voting should stop but politicians are yet to decide on that. It has been reported they will have to form long queues in Westminster to maintain social distancing while voting.
There are also fears that MPs with health conditions or who those who are caring for others will be excluded from voting if remote participation is no longer allowed.
Last week on Zoom Mr Dorans asked Secretary of State for Scotland, Alister Jack, why he travelled to Westminster and ignored Scottish Government guidelines.
The Dumfries and Galloway Conservative MP said it was right he was there in person so he could be scrutinised.
Mr Dorans has submitted a question raising the issue of Mr Jack self-isolating on return to Scotland.
