Who says Commons voting procedures are dull? During last night’s votes on amendments to the Rwanda bill, Labour MP Clive Lewis tried to enter the division lobby but was refused entry because the time had expired. Cue an angry sweary rant at the Commons doorkeeper on instruction from the Deputy Speaker not to let anyone through. Some MPs claim Lewis then loudly complained that he was denied entry because he is a black MP. In line with Lewis’ usual tact and decorum in the Chamber…

Deputy speaker Roger Gale said “the consequences will be very severe” if the foul-mouthed member was identified, though Lewis pre-empted him by apologising for swearing “at no one in particular“:

“Let me very quickly explain. I received a message that caused me some consternation and surprise, to which I made an outburst in general at no one specifically. If I could do it again, I probably would have said something like ‘my giddy aunt’, rather than what did come out of my mouth, and for that I apologise.“

And they say swearing is a sign of intelligence…