Points of Order Debate

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Robert Halfon

Main Page: Robert Halfon (Conservative - Harlow)
Wednesday 20th April 2022

(2 years ago)

Commons Chamber
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Lindsay Hoyle Portrait Mr Speaker
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No, in a nutshell. You have quite rightfully raised the matter; it is not a point of order for the Chair, but you have certainly put it on the record.

It is important that we have tolerance and moderate language, but in fairness we need freedom of the press. I have taken the hits sometimes as well, as you yourself have. What I would say is that there is a level, and we all judge that level. You have judged this to go beyond it, and I accept that that is why you have put the matter on the record. I think, for that purpose, we will leave it there.

Robert Halfon Portrait Robert Halfon (Harlow) (Con)
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On a point of order, Mr Speaker. You will be aware of the incident with my hon. Friend the Member for Harrow East (Bob Blackman), when he was driving through—

Lindsay Hoyle Portrait Mr Speaker
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Order. May I just say that I am well aware of it? I have had a discussion and I am having a meeting later, but I will certainly not raise on the Floor of the House the issue of security at the moment. I would sooner have that meeting first; if we are not satisfied then, I will come back by all means, but there is some information that I do not want to come—[Interruption.] I would sooner leave the security issue, because it was a worry and it is a problem. I would sooner not air it here until I have met the three Members concerned—there is more than one.

Robert Halfon Portrait Robert Halfon
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May I make a general point?

Lindsay Hoyle Portrait Mr Speaker
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A general point, but I do not want to open up the security issue.

Robert Halfon Portrait Robert Halfon
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If it is possible, Mr Speaker, will you look at having a police officer outside the gate, not just inside it, as people drive in?

Lindsay Hoyle Portrait Mr Speaker
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Once again, I do not want to be brought into a security issue. I think it is better that we leave it there, but please come and see me privately and we can certainly have a discussion.