M.P. TO GO ON TRIAL IN HOUSE

Press, Volume CIV, Issue 30678, 18 February 1965, Page 13

M.P. TO GO ON TRIAL IN HOUSE

(N.Z.P.A: Reuter—Copyright) LONDON, February 17. British members of Parliament yesterday decided to put a Labour M.P., Mr Patrick Duffy, on trial over his allegation that some members had been half drunk during censure debates.

They decided to refer the matter to the Committee of Privileges to see whether he had impeached on the dignity of Parliament and its members.

A positive finding would mean Mr Duffy could be sent to gaol, though nobody has been in recent years. Otherwise thv committee could call for an apology. Mr Duffy said some Conservative members were half drunk and a disgusting sight during censure motions on Labour’s first 100 days in office and on the future of the aircraft industry.

His comments were reported in the “Sunday Express.” Mr Duffy said on Monday: “I stand by everything I said. This matter should be brought into the open.” Conservatives protested to the Speaker (Sir Harry Hyl-ton-Foster), who decided the complaint raised a matter of privilege. Mr Duffy was asked if he wished to say anything. He did not, and, in accordance with tradition, left the chamber while the House decided to put the matter before the committee.

After the Speaker had put the motion that the speech be referred to the Select Committee on Privileges, Mr Sel-

wyn Lloyd, for the Opposition, said: “1 am certain this is the right course to take, and I hope my fellow members will accept the question.”

Mr A. Manuel (Labour) rose on a point of order, but there were cries of “no” and he did not pursue It. The motion was agreed without dissent.