Scottish Labour peer apologises after saying ‘to hell with the bishop’ in House of Lords

Scottish Labour Peer Issues Apology After Controversial Remark in House of Lords

A Scottish Labour peer, George Foulkes, has apologised after making a contentious statement in the House of Lords, saying “to hell with the bishop.” The incident occurred during a debate on Tuesday afternoon when there was a dispute over who should speak first. When Viscount Stansgate attempted to speak, a bishop stood up as if it were their turn. Despite calls from Tory Lords to allow the bishop to speak, Foulkes insisted it was Labour’s turn, exclaiming, “To hell with the bishop.” This comment was met with disapproval from others in the chamber.

After the debate, Foulkes offered an apology, acknowledging the inappropriateness of his remark. He expressed regret, particularly to the bishops, for any offence or upset caused. Labour has been advocating for the removal of hereditary peers in the House of Lords, aiming to eliminate the practice of peers inheriting their position in the chamber. Some Conservatives have argued that hereditary peers hold more relevance in the Lords compared to Church of England bishops, of which there are currently 26 in the chamber.

George Foulkes, a former Labour MP and MSP, represented Carrick, Cumnock, and Doon Valley as an MP from 1979 to 2005, followed by a term as a Lothians MSP from 2007 to 2011. The incident has sparked discussions about the role of bishops and hereditary peers in the House of Lords, with calls for greater reform in the composition of the chamber.

In conclusion, Foulkes’ controversial remark and subsequent apology shed light on the ongoing debates surrounding the House of Lords’ structure and the roles of different members within it. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of respectful discourse in parliamentary settings and the need for continued efforts towards democratic reform.