The first revolt against the Parliamentary Labour Party's new disciplinary rule banning meetings of "unrecognised" groups of MPs has come from an unexpected quarter - three "middle-of-the-road" members, who include a former Minister, Mr. Christopher Mayhew. In a letter to the Government Chief Whip, Mr. John Silkin, the three state that they intend to continue meeting with "like-minded colleagues" on particular issues. "We do not think it is consistent with our rights and duties as MPs to ask for official permission to do this" they add. Even the most loyal of MPs find themselves differing with their leaders on particular issues, the letter says, "and if they want to make their views effective they are bound to discuss these differences with like-minded colleagues in unofficial groups."' The letter adds, "While naturally opposed to disruptive groups, we feel we must register our strong opposition to this far-reaching directive of yours." Mr, Silkin later replied to Mr. Mayhew denying that his original letter to MPs had any sinister motive. Last night the "Monday Club" of about 30 Le*t-wingers, most of whom refused to support the Government during the recent controversial votes on prices and incomes, held another meeting. It then sent its own letter to Mr. Silkin to the effect that its meetings were solely to discuss important issues and not to make decisions on them. Mr. Mayhew resigned earlier this year as Navy Minister, following « disagreement with the Government's defence policy. Since then he has been a leading opponent of the Government's east of Suez defence expenditure. The other MPs who signed the letter were Mr. Arthur Palmer (Bristol Central) and Mr. William Wells (Walsall North).
*