Speaker accuses government of 'total disregard' for parliament after coronavirus rules leaked to media

Lindsay Hoyle has reprimanded the government for failing to deliver a statement to the Commons on new coronavirus restrictions, urging Matt Hancock to apologise to MPs.  

After No 10 changed guidance on social gatherings in a briefing on Tuesday evening, the Commons speaker said: “I accept decisions have been taken in a fast moving situation but timings for statements are well known to ministers.

“It’s really not good enough for the government to make decisions of this kind in the way in which show insufficient regard for the importance of major policy announcements being made first to this House and members wherever possible.  

“Can I say to him I’ve already sent a letter to the secretary of state. I think the total disregard for this chamber is not acceptable.”