FOR every MP the free vote on gay marriage was going to be a problem because most constituencies will have wildly-divergent views.
Whichever way they voted, they risked alienating potential voters. But they nailed their colours to the mast.
But Oxford West and Abingdon MP Nicola Blackwood has contrived to damage herself with her decision to abstain.
The points she raises – she believes in equality, yet is worried about the potential for litigation for churches that refuse to host such ceremonies – are valid debatable issues but not unique to Oxford West and Abingdon.
But ultimately we look to MPs to provide firm leadership and opinion.
Miss Blackwood is a good constituency MP. But a decision to steer a muddled middle path may ultimately cost her support. A firm stand backed by solidy held views always wins respect rather than fence sitting.
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