Point of Order

– in the House of Commons at 3:31 pm on 3 February 1997.

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Photo of Denis MacShane Denis MacShane , Rotherham 3:31, 3 February 1997

On a point of order, Madam Speaker. I wish to raise a matter about which I have given notice to you and, by telephone and letter, to the hon. Gentleman involved. Last week, I received a letter from the hon. Member for Stafford (Mr. Cash), threatening me with legal action arising out of a speech that I made in the House 10 days ago, when I suggested or argued that he and other right hon. and hon. Members supported policies that would lead to the detachment or withdrawal of Britain from Europe. He now threatens me with legal action if I repeat those remarks. In no way did I question his personal honour, probity or integrity. I myself have been accused of being a Euro-federalist, which is a lie. Madam Speaker, is it in order for one hon. Member to threaten another with legal action on an important area of public policy debate?

Photo of Miss Betty Boothroyd Miss Betty Boothroyd Speaker of the House of Commons

I do not think that I can help the hon. Gentleman. He knows, as does the House, that nothing said during proceedings in this House can possibly give rise to action in the courts. If, of course, one hon. Member takes legal action against another for something said or done outside this House—whatever it may be—it is not a matter for the Chair.