HC Deb 27 May 1927 vol 206 c2328
Colonel GRANT MORDEN

Mr. Speaker, last night an incident happened, and I regret that I was angered by an insulting and unjustifiable remark made by the right hon. Gentleman the Member for Platting (Mr. Clynes) against my leader the Prime Minister. I said that the Socialist party was in the pay of the Soviet Government. I realise that a wholesale charge of that kind is unjustified, but while there are individual members of the Socialist party who are under the influence of Moscow—[HON. MEMBERS: "Rubbish!"]—I wish to withdraw the charge against the party as a whole—

Mr. W. THORNE

That is another charge.

Mr. ARTHUR HENDERSON

On a point of Order. I want to ask if this charge is going to be sustained.

Mr. SPEAKER

It was only just at this moment that I had word that the hon. and gallant Member wished to make a personal explanation. As a rule, I like to see those explanations before they are made. It is quite improper that they should include anything whatsoever except as regards an hon. Member himself. I think the hon. and gallant Member had better defer it until he has let me see what he wishes to say.

Colonel MORDEN

I shall be glad to withdraw if the right hon. Gentleman will withdraw his charge against the Prime Minister.

Mr. SPEAKER

That is a matter which is controversial, and nothing of a controversial nature is allowed on a personal explanation.