§ Sir R. CaryI wish to raise, Mr. Speaker, what I consider to be a prime facie case of breach of privilege.
My complaint is centred on words and sentiments uttered by the Chancellor of the Exchequer in a speech this last weekend at Swansea. I have in my hand a copy of today's Daily Telegraph, 5th July, which actually prints the words about which I complain. May I read them to the House?
In referring to some hon. Members of the House, the Chancellor said:
he did not think of them as the honourable Member for X, or Y or Z.'I look at them and say "Investment trusts"'.
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. It is of great importance that when an hon. Member exercises his right to address a complaint of privilege to the Chair he should be heard in silence.
§ Sir R. CaryThe quotation says:
'I look at them and say "Investment trusts", "Capital speculators" or "That is the fellow who is the Stock Exchange man who makes profit on Gilt Edge".I have almost forgotten their constituencies, but I shall never forget their interests'.I submit that those words are a gross contempt of the House of Commons and a breach of privilege.
§ Mr. SpeakerI will consider the hon. Member's complaint in the light of the authorities and rule upon it tomorrow.