adminThe Rhodesia Herald,
February 14, 1969
A LIBERAL MP caused uproar in the House of Commons last night when he used a four-letter word to criticise what he felt was a long-winded debate on reforming the House of Lords.
“I can’t imagine that an Assembly supposed to represent the nation could spend so long debating such a trivial issue,” Mr Eric Lubbock told his colleagues. “All we have heard is **** and wind.”
Cries of outrage went up over Mr Lubbock’s use of the word.
“I hate to be a school master, but I think on reflection you will regret your contribution”, said the Leader of the House, Mr Fred Peart.
Some conservative MPs tried to get the Speaker formally reprimand Mr Lubbock. The Speaker did not rule use of the word unparliamentary.
The issue that prompted Mr Lubbock’s language was a Government Bill aimed at curbing the powers of the House of Lords.
Mr Lubbock (40), is Chief Whip of the 12-member Liberal Party in the 630 seat House of Commons.
LESSONS FOR TODAY
Unruly conduct in parliament is not confined to the developing world alone, but is also common in developed countries even those that pride themselves as the most civilised in the world.
Parliaments the world over, are governed by a code of conduct and ethics, which should be observed in and outside house.
The use of unparliamentary language can never be endorsed and parliaments need to enact stricter laws to ensure that parliamentarians behave themselves when they are in the house.
Leaders are human and not beyond reproach. They also err like everyone else and it is important to correct them when they are wrong and for them to accept their mistakes.
Online Reporter