HC Deb 14 November 1912 vol 43 cc2089-90
Earl WINTERTON

I desire to raise a question of privilege. It has reference to an article which appeared in the "Daily Chronicle" newspaper this morning. The words on which I desire to ask whether a breach of privilege has not in fact been committed are:— They (the Tories) had come back from dinner flown with insolence and wine. The only possible meaning to be attached to these words, which, as it happens, are a misquotation from Milton's "Paradise Lost"—the only possible meaning to be attached to the words "flown with wine" is that hon. Members on this side of the House were intoxicated, and I desire to ask you, Sir, whether a very serious breach of privilege has not been committed by that newspaper bringing against those who sit on this side of the House what is an absolute and a foul slander.

Mr. SPEAKER

As the words were read out by the Noble Lord, I confess I was unable to attach a meaning to the word "flown." I do not understand the words "flown with wine." Anybody who was here yesterday would be able to say there was no truth whatever in the statement. However regrettable the scene may have been, everybody will agree that that, at any rate, is not a correct account of what happened. The account is very highly coloured, and is also inaccurate and untrue. I think, in these circumstances, the matter might be dropped.

Earl WINTERTON

I am very much obliged to you, Sir.