backbencher

American  

[bak-ben-cher, -ben-] / ˈbækˈbɛn tʃər, -ˌbɛn- /

noun

1. any of the members of a legislature, especially of the House of Commons of Great Britain, but not including the leaders of the parties.

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backbencher British  

/ ˈbækˈbɛntʃə /

noun

1. a Member of Parliament who does not hold office in the government or opposition

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Etymology

Origin of backbencher

First recorded in 1905–10; back bench + -er ¹

Example Sentences

A backbencher added: "It was clearly meant to appeal to Reform-leaning voters, but in fact had the opposite effect."

From BBC

The climbdown follows months of protests by farmers and concern from some Labour backbenchers.

From BBC

Morgan said she was "on the same page" as her backbenchers and denied they were undermining her because she had spoken to Starmer herself about the issue.

From BBC

Labour backbenchers were so angry about the implications that after months of campaigning, ministers at almost the very last minute ditched that plan.

From BBC

Dozens of the party's backbenchers are believed to have abstained during a vote on Tuesday to authorise the plans, which are due to take effect in April.

From BBC