LONDON, UK: Chaos erupted in the British House of Commons on Wednesday over a motion calling for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.
The chamber was to debate and vote on a motion by the Scottish National Party (SNP) calling for an “immediate ceasefire” in Gaza.
Instead, in an unusual move, House Speaker Lindsay Hoyle allowed a vote on a motion from the main opposition Labor party calling for an “immediate humanitarian ceasefire” in Gaza.
This infuriated the ruling Conservative Party and the SNP.
SNP Commons leader Stephen Flynn condemned the move, calling it a “complete and utter humiliation” for the party.
In the face of the furor, Mr Hoyle apologized, saying he had only intended to allow for a wider debate on the issue.
The plan was not officially put to a vote because the government announced that it would not participate in the protests.
Political fervor is running high in Britain ahead of this year’s general election.
Polls suggest that the conservative party, which has been in power since 2010, is likely to lose elections.
Labor is regaining strength after taking several seats from the Conservatives in the by-elections.
