The Westminster Hall debate, called by Isle of Wight MP, Bob Seely, became heated at one point yesterday (Tuesday) as the left and right clashed over Covid-19 modelling data.
SNP Shadow Spokesperson, Brendan O’Hara, disagreed with what the Isle of Wight MP had presented (read it here), saying,
“SAGE officials, scientists and medical staff have done a remarkable job to keep us all safe, and many people across these islands owe their lives to them.
“I believe that the work that those people have done under enormous pressure should be applauded and appreciated, not undermined by the far-right libertarian Tories we have today.”
Call to “calm down”
O’Hara pointed towards Seely and his fellow Conservatives when mentioning “far-right libertarian Tories”.
This sparked a call across the room from Seely of “shame”, which resulted in the Chairman of the meeting, Edward Leigh, pointing towards the Isle of Wight MP and saying, “Bob, will you calm down please”. He then expanded this to say, “Would every calm down please. No more shouting.” as both Seely and O’Hara were on their feet.
Accusations of name-calling
Seely said he did not appreciate being called “far-right”, but O’Hara then accused Seely of previously twice calling him a fool, and asking the Chair whether that was appropriate Parliamentary language.
You can read the transcript in full, or watch the recorded footage (starts at 16.30 – the ding dong is at about 17:12).
Image: © Parliament TV
