What is a Backbencher? – Wigan Council

Question: What is a Backbencher?

Asked by molliepop to James, Paul on 7 Oct 2010 in Categories: General. This question was also asked by lucy.

James Cowley answered on 5 Oct 2010:

Hi mollie, The backbencher derives from those who sit behind the front benches in the House of Commons and dually in the role of a councillor is someone who advocates for the area they represent without having any other role within their party group or council. For example if I were to be in charge of Children’s Services I would become a cabinet member, and therefore I would no longer be a backbench councillor.

0
Paul Tushingham answered on 7 Oct 2010:

A Backbencher is someone part of the Council Chamber (75 Councillors) but not part of the Cabinet (12 Councillors) The Cabinet is also known as Front Benchers.

If you see Parliament on the TV, the Front Benchers sit on the fron benches and hence the name. Hope this helps.

0

molliepop commented on 5 Oct 2010:

Thankyou for answering my question.

0
James commented on 5 Oct 2010:

No problem Mollie

0
Gary commented on 5 Oct 2010:

Hi Mollie,
Can I add a backbencher is a person who represents a Party’s view..and not neccesary the views of their Community, Labour Conservative and Lib Dem’s all have backbenchers to push their Party’s view’s. Independent MP’s and Councillors only represent their Community. That a strenght the others Don’t have. Regards Gary.

0