Shinwell Challenges Opponent To Fight

Press, Volume CI, Issue 29745, 12 February 1962, Page 9

Shinwell Challenges Opponent To Fight

(N.Z.P.A.-Reuter— Copyright)

LONDON, February 9 A 7 9-year-old former Labour Defence Minister, Mr Emanuel Shinwell,

challenged a Conservative opponent to a fight during a House of Commons debate on the British Army last night

They had been exchanging words over remarks Mr Shinwell had made some days ago about the Territorial Army. Mr Shinwell, well known for his pugnacity in debates, was speaking about “top sergeants” in the Territorials when Sir Kenneth Pickthorn shouted: “They don’t have top sergeants in the T.A. I have served in the T.A., which is more than you have done.” Mr Shinwell retorted: “I’ve probably done more fighting in a week at a dock strike than you have done in your life—real fighting, too, and been shot at. I’ll take you on any time in spite of my age.” Sir Kenneth Pickthorn made no response. This is not the first time Mr Shinwell has challenged a political opponent to a fight. Some years ago he walked

across the chamber and slapped the face of Commander Bower, a Conservative, after a dispute. He then invited him outside for a fight. But Commander Bower, former Royal Navy heavyweight boxing champion, kept his temper and sat stilt