House of Commons Speaker Kicks Out Tory MP During PMQs

During prime minister’s questions on Wednesday, the House of Commons speaker, Lindsay Hoyle, became irritated due to yelling from the government benches, pausing proceedings twice in the first three minutes of the session to ask MPs to stop shouting during the exchange between Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer. Four minutes into the session, he ordered Paul Bristow, Peterborough MP, to leave the chambers, stating, “Mr Bristow, I think you’re going to be leaving. I’m asking you to leave now, because otherwise I’ll name you. I’m not having it, and I’ve warned you before. It’s the same people.”

Threatening to “name” the MP is parliamentary language for formally disciplining a politician which can result in suspension. Mr Bristow left the chambers voluntarily while opposition benches lauded his exit. The Commons speaker previously criticised MPs for shouting during debates, which he believes poorly reflects parliamentary proceedings and is unpopular with the public.

Earlier this month, Lindsay Hoyle rebuked Kemi Badenoch, the trade secretary, asking her, “Do you think you’re speaking to?” when her apparent dismissive response reflected his concerns about the government’s approach to dealing with parliament. Mr Hoyle has been known to discipline MPs who fail to adhere to parliamentary standards, a precedent adopted by predecessors in the position.

Paul Bristow worked as a lobbyist before his election in 2019. He currently serves on the Commons health select committee. Post-session, he told reporters, “I got a little over-excited.”

In summary, the House of Commons speaker demonstrated zero tolerance towards MPs who disrupt parliamentary proceedings by disciplining them accordingly.

Credit: independent.co.uk

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