Conservative MP Victoria Atkins has been criticised for her behaviour during a parliamentary debate as she attempted to loudly interrupt another MP.
A video of the incident on Friday shows the shadow health and social care secretary standing at the despatch box and speaking over Labour’s Steve Reed, while deputy speaker Christopher Chope calls for order. Mr Chope then tells the chamber: “The right honourable lady has behaved abominably.”
Labour MP Perran Moon said Ms Atkins’ behaviour was “an absolute disgrace” and called for appropriate action to be taken.
Ms Atkins’ office said she was “trying to get answers” during the debate.
Lib Dem MP Helen Morgan, who was in the room during the row, spoke of the incident in a post on X.
“I witnessed this first-hand. The Conservatives proved the electorate got it right: they are not fit for government”, she said.
Josh Fenton-Glynn, Labour MP for Calder Valley, also posted: “I think the fact you don’t get to speak as much in opposition is hard for them [Conservatives] to get used to”.
The incident happened as Environment Secretary Steve Reed spoke during the planning, green belt and rural affairs debate in the Commons.
A spokesperson for Ms Atkins’ office said: “Conservative MPs were trying to get answers about their budgets for farming, flood defences and food security, which the minister ignored.
“She will always stand up fearlessly for farmers and our rural area in Westminster, even if that means a rare admonishment from the Chair.”
Closing the debate shortly after the brief row, Mr Reed, Labour MP for Streatham and Croydon North, said: “I thank all members who have taken part in this constructive and insightful debate for their perceptive contributions and their dedication to making progress on important matters.
“After 14 years of chaos, there is once again hope for our environment, hope for our countryside, and hope for our rural communities.”
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