<Li> They were alienated when the Patriots resorted to violence, such as burning houses and tarring and feathering . </Li> <Li> They wanted to take a middle - of - the road position and were angry when forced by the Patriots to declare their opposition . </Li> <Li> They had a long - standing sentimental attachment to Britain (often with business and family links). </Li> <Li> They were procrastinators who realized that independence was bound to come someday, but wanted to postpone the moment . </Li>

Members of the british parliament who supported the colonies' side