Chaos erupted in the UK’s House of Commons as Speaker Lindsay Hoyle faced backlash over his handling of a crucial vote on support for a ceasefire in Gaza. The government and the Scottish National Party (SNP) condemned Hoyle, leading to SNP MPs and some Conservatives walking out of the chamber in protest.
The controversy stemmed from Hoyle’s decision to allow MPs to vote on a Labour amendment to an SNP motion calling for an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza and Israel. The original SNP motion also called for an end to the “collective punishment of the Palestinian people” by Israel. However, the Labour amendment included language that acknowledged Israel’s right to defend itself if Hamas continued with violence.
It was expected that Hoyle would prioritize a government amendment seeking an “immediate humanitarian pause” instead of a ceasefire. By prioritizing the opposition Labour Party’s rival motion, Hoyle was accused of breaking precedent. This decision allowed Labour to avoid a potential split over the SNP motion, with some Labour MPs willing to support it but the party leadership instructing them not to vote for it without the Labour amendment.
The move by Hoyle prevented a major revolt against Labour leader Keir Starmer, who has been trying to distance himself from the legacy of former leader Jeremy Corbyn. Starmer has faced criticism for not strongly condemning Israel’s actions in Gaza and ignoring the plight of the Palestinians. The split within Labour over Israel’s assault on Gaza could have significant implications for the party’s chances in the upcoming UK general elections.
The chaotic events in parliament drew attention away from the situation in Gaza and undermined the impact of the vote. SNP MP Ian Blackford expressed regret that the focus had shifted from protecting the people in Gaza who desperately needed a ceasefire.
The controversy surrounding Hoyle’s handling of the vote led to Conservative MP William Wragg tabling a motion expressing no confidence in the speaker. Some parliamentarians viewed Hoyle’s actions as a deviation from his traditionally neutral role. Hoyle later returned to the House of Commons and apologized, stating that he had tried to do what he believed was right for all sides.
The outcome of the vote was seen as a procedural nightmare, with the Labour amendment passing because no Conservatives participated in the vote. The SNP motion, which initiated the entire debate, was not voted on at all, leading to anger from both the SNP and Conservatives.
In conclusion, the chaos in the UK’s House of Commons over the Gaza ceasefire vote has highlighted divisions within the Labour Party and raised questions about Speaker Lindsay Hoyle’s handling of the situation. The controversy has overshadowed the urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza and has left parliament looking compromised. The outcome of the vote has allowed Labour to avoid a potential rebellion but has also sparked anger among other parties. The situation highlights the challenges faced by Keir Starmer as he tries to navigate a delicate balance between different factions within his party while maintaining a strong stance on international issues.