CONDUCT OF THE GOVERNMENT CHIEF WHIP

Early day motion 288, tabled 22 October 2001 by Mark Field (Conservative). Signed by 5 members.

That this House recalls the statement of the then Labour Party General Secretary, Jim Mortimer, during the 1983 general election campaign, that 'we were all insistent that Michael Foot is the leader of the Labour Party', shortly before the latter's resignation; notes the similar statement by Alistair Campbell, quoted on 'The World at One' on 22nd October, that 'The Prime Minister believes that Hilary Armstrong is the Chief Whip'; and believes that her tenure of office should last no longer than that of Mr Michael Foot after Jim Mortimer's endorsement, given her heavy-handed, inept and counter-productive attempt to intimidate her honourable Friend, the honourable Member for Shrewsbury and Atcham.

Signatures by party: Conservative 5.