A Labour MP has apologised for an “altercation” during Prime Minister’s Questions in which he was accused by speaker Lindsay Hoyle of “disgraceful” behaviour after an apparent heckling of Boris Johnson.
During an answer from Boris Johnson on Brexit at last week’s PMQs Hoyle took exception to the MP for Rhondda’s behaviour before he left the chamber.
Bryant eventually returned, with the pair having a heated discussion at the speaker’s chair as PMQs continued.
Sir Lindsay then warned: “Mr Bryant, I think we need this conversation later.”
Chris Bryant, who chairs the Committee on Standards, made a personal statement in which he acknowledged his conduct had been “unacceptable” and that he wished the events had not occurred.
In an apology in the House of Commons the Labour MP said: “I am utterly mortified by the events of last week when my heckling interrupted proceedings during Prime Minister’s Questions and when I challenged the authority of the chair.
“I entered into an altercation with the chair and I did not treat the chair with due respect.
“That is unacceptable and I apologise unreservedly to the House and to you personally, Mr Speaker.
“I really wish none of this had ever occurred and I fully accept my conduct was unacceptable.”
Sir Lindsay replied: “Can I say I accept your apology and I am content that that draws a line under the matter.”
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