article_snippet: Rochester by-election.
article_snippet: The Speaker’s Counsel, Michael Carpenter, told MPs The Speaker’s Counsel, Michael Carpenter had been ‘unpersuaded’ by Sir Jeremy’s arguments.
article_snippet: Mr Carpenter said that, far from being a backroom activity, telephone canvassing involved taking part in a political debate with members of the public.
article_snippet: Mr Timothy and Mr Parkinson are now expected to apply to be re-instated to the candidates list after the election.
article_snippet: Sources said Mr Timothy and Mr Parkinson appeared to have a ‘slam dunk case’ to get Mr Timothy and Mr Parkinson suspension lifted.