George Galloway returns to Parliament as he's sworn in as new Rochdale MP
manchestereveningnews.co.ukGeorge Galloway was today formerly sworn in as the new MP for Rochdale. The Workers Party of Great Britain leader received just under 40 per cent of the vote and took the seat with a majority of 5,697 after the town's electorate went to the polls in a by-election last Thursday.
Labour withdrew support for its candidate, Azhar Ali, after a recording emerged in which he claimed Israel was complicit in the terrorist attacks of October 7, seeing Mr Galloway become the firm favourite for the seat. READ MORE: Trafford Park incident LIVE: Major incident declared by Greater Manchester Police amid chemical leak as people are warned to close their doors and windows - latest updates In the House of Commons on Monday afternoon, Mr Galloway, 69, took the parliamentary oath, an oath of allegiance to the Crown.
It's traditionally performed by new MPs before they take their seats in Parliament. Required under law, MPs cannot take their seat, speak in debates, vote or receive a salary until taking the oath or affirmation.
Mr Galloway approached Commons Speaker, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, after he asked: "Would members wishing to take their seats please come to the table." Holding a Bible in his left hand, he said with his right hand raised: "I swear by almighty God that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles, his heirs and successors, according to law.
Read more on manchestereveningnews.co.uk
