Tory MP says 'he might punch woman journalist in the throat'

A Conservative MP has apologised for saying he might end up punching a journalist "in the throat" if he appeared on a discussion show with her.



Michael Fabricant tweeted the remark after Yasmin Alibhai-Brown took part in a Channel 4 News debate.

Ms Alibhai-Brown said she was shocked and has called on David Cameron to withdraw his party whip.

Mr Fabricant said he was wrong to joke about punching. "I, of course, withdraw and apologise," he said.

The tweet said: "I could never appear on a discussion prog with @y_alibhai I would either end up with a brain haemorrhage or by punching her in the throat."

Newspaper columnist Ms Alibhai-Brown said an apology was not enough and the Lichfield MP should have his party whip withdrawn.

MP Gloria De Piero, Labour's Shadow Minister for Women and Equalities, described the tweet as "utterly appalling".

"It is unacceptable that views like this persist in the Conservative Party," she said.

"David Cameron needs to be clear about this and set out what action he will be taking."

It was only words!

Politicians are apt to open their mouths without engaging their brains. - If they have any in the first place, that is!