Speaker rejects mobile ring fines

According to the BBC, Commons Speaker Michael Martin has refused an MP's plea to fine colleagues if mobile phones ring in the chamber.

Leeds North West MP Greg Mulholland proposed adopting a local council scheme where all fines go to charity.

Whilst accepting that we're all fallible in terms of the potential to leave our mobile phones on, may I recommend to the House a scheme in Leeds City Council whereby the Lord Mayor of Leeds fines a member of council who has his or her phone ring?

He added: And may I suggest that the Speaker considers a suitable charity and introduces a similar scheme in this House?

To laughter in the Commons chamber, the Speaker responded: "I've no powers to fine honourable gentlemen or ladies for that matter".

emily | 11:17 AM | News, Buzz |
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