During a Commons debate regarding calls for a ceasefire in Gaza, chaos ensued after Labour was accused of “hijacking” it. Sir Lindsay Hoyle, the Speaker, faced anger from both the SNP and Conservatives when he allowed a vote on a Labour motion for an “immediate humanitarian ceasefire.” The SNP stated that they had been “treated with complete and utter contempt.” The Speaker later expressed regret for his actions and apologized, stating that he had acted “with the right intentions.”
SNP MPs, alongside some Tories, walked out of the chamber following the Speaker’s decision. Sir Lindsay later explained that he allowed a vote on Labour’s motion to provide MPs with an opportunity to express their view on “the widest range of propositions.” There was no formal vote on the SNP’s original motion requesting an “immediate ceasefire,” the focus of the debate, as the government refused to participate in protest.
The government is not required to adopt Labour’s position because the vote is non-binding. Visibly irate, the SNP Westminster leader, Stephen Flynn, stated that while he appreciated the Speaker’s apology, Commons officials had warned the decision could prevent his party’s vote, designated as an SNP opposition day.
The Speaker’s decision has caused concerns in the House, with Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt stating that it has undermined its confidence. Over 30 SNP and Tory MPs have lost confidence in him and signed an early day motion, although few such petitions are discussed.
Thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters gathered in Parliament Square during the debate. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer prevented another political revolt over the party’s stance on Gaza because Labour MPs could demonstrate their support for a ceasefire without endorsing the SNP’s motion, which demanded an end to the “collective punishment of the Palestinian people.” Labour subsequently shifted its stance to call for an “immediate humanitarian ceasefire.” The government is pushing for an “immediate humanitarian pause,” as well as supporting efforts toward a “permanent sustainable ceasefire.
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