HC Deb 19 April 1972 vol 835 cc529-30
Mrs. Jill Knight (Birmingham, Edgbaston)

I wish to make a complaint of breach of privilege arising out of a report in the Daily Express of today's date that the hon. Member for Fermanagh and South Tyrone (Mr. McManus) says that because of parliamentary privilege he and the hon. Member for Mid-Ulster (Miss Devlin) will be free from arrest if they stay within the precincts of the House of Commons, and that, therefore, both of them intend to remain here in this House following their gaol sentence. This appears to contravene the rules of privilege as set out in "Erskine May".

I should like to make it quite plain that I am accusing not the Daily Express but the Member who made the statement reported.

This matter raises the question of how far you and I in this House, Mr. Speaker, are prepared to go to protect a Member from the consequences of breaking the law, even in Northern Ireland. It is a serious matter, which seems to constitute a breach of privilege, and I ask for your ruling.

Mr. Speaker

If the hon. Lady is founding her complaint on a newspaper, will she kindly bring it to the Table?

Copy of newspaper handed in.

Mr. Speaker

In accordance with the practice which has now been accepted by the House, I will rule upon this matter tomorrow.

Mr. Kevin McNamara (Kingston upon Hull, North)

On a point of order— —

Mr. Speaker

Is it a matter arising out of the question of privilege?

Mr. McNamara

It is a question on your statement, Mr. Speaker. When you are reaching your decision, will you be looking at legislation of a former subordinate Parliament and its effect in this country?

Mr. Speaker

I shall be considering all relevant considerations.