I’m told that senior figures from the Scottish National party met Labour whips this morning to call for the resignation of Ian Davidson, chairman of the Commons Scottish affairs select committee.
During a heated debate last night (just before 11pm) Mr Davidson described the SNP’s outlook as “narrow, neo-fascism“. When the remarks prompted an uproar, the MP repeated his insult, saying: “Is it not neo-fascist to attempt to shout down speakers that you disagree with?” (Answer: technically, no.)
I’ve put in a call to Labour to ask for their response. I’m also trying to get hold of Mr Davidson to see what he has to say.
Here is the full Hansard of the debate:
(Ian Davidson) I notice that efforts are being made to shout me down. That is what has traditionally happened in Scotland when people have challenged the nationalists, and those of us who want to challenge the narrow neo-fascism of the nationalists have got to be prepared to have discussions—
Stewart Hosie: On a point of order, Mr Speaker.
Mr Speaker: I hope it is a point of order.
Stewart Hosie: The use of this neo-fascist description is absurd, offensive and wrong in every single regard. What powers, Sir, do you have to ensure that this nonsense is not said or repeated?
Mr Speaker: My powers do not extend to the refutation of nonsense.
Mr Davidson: Is it not neo-fascist to attempt to shout down speakers with whom one disagrees?
UPDATE: Angus Robertson, leader of the SNP in the Commons, has just asked a point of order about the issue. For the Scottish affairs committee to vote for Mr Davidson’s resignation would require the majority party on the committee to want him out; that is Labour, with five MPs. (Will they tribally defend their man?) Bizarrely the SNP only has a single committee member, despite being the party of government in Scotland.
Jim Pickard
Kiran Stacey