Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle is facing accusations of playing 'party politics' after he granted a vote on Labour's Gaza ceasefire motion, breaking with convention. The decision sparked fury among SNP and Conservative MPs, who accused him of undermining impartiality.
Sir Lindsay said he allowed the vote to protect MPs' safety amid threats over the issue, but the Commons descended into acrimony. He later apologised but still faces calls to resign, with 56 Tory and SNP MPs signing a motion of no confidence.
Health Minister Maria Caulfield claimed the Speaker acted under 'undue pressure' from Labour, a charge denied by both Labour and a source close to Sir Lindsay. Labour's Pat McFadden admitted party leader Sir Keir Starmer lobbied the Speaker before the debate but rejected claims of threats.
The row erupted during a debate allocated to the SNP, who tabled a motion calling for an 'immediate ceasefire' in Gaza. Labour tabled an amendment also backing a ceasefire but noting Israel 'cannot be expected to cease fighting if Hamas continues with violence'. Sir Lindsay allowed a vote on Labour's amendment, breaking tradition.
After the Conservatives said they would not take part, Labour's motion was passed, preventing a standalone vote on the SNP wording. SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn accused Sir Lindsay of 'colluding' with Labour to block their motion.
Sir Lindsay, first elected as a Labour MP but now non-partisan, is due to meet parties for clear-the-air talks. Some MPs, including former Conservative minister Robert Buckland, accepted his apology and said they would not seek a confidence vote.
