MP Eric Joyce apologises to MPs over bar brawl

MP Eric Joyce has apologised in the House of Commons for assaulting a number of politicians in a Parliamentary bar.

He made personal apologies to several MPs and councillors who he hit during a brawl in the Strangers' Bar.

The Falkirk MP also said he had tendered his resignation from the Labour Party after his conduct fell "egregiously below" proper standards.

Joyce was fined £3,000 and given a pub ban after admitting assault last week.

The former soldier - who was suspended by Labour following the fracas - has already announced his intention not to seek re-election in 2015.

'Too many Tories'

Police were called to the Palace of Westminster following reports of a disturbance shortly before closing time on 22 February.

The MP had been singing loudly, and lashed out after declaring there were "too many" Tories in the bar.

He pleaded guilty to four charges, including one of assault by beating, and was given a fine, a 12-month community order which included a curfew from Friday to Sunday, and was ordered to pay £1,400 in compensation to his victims.

In a statement to the Commons, Joyce apologised to Conservative MPs Stuart Andrew, Jackie Doyle-Price, Andrew Percy and Alec Shelbrooke, as well as Labour MP and whip Phil Wilson.

Mr Andrew, MP for Pudsey, was headbutted by Joyce, while Mr Wilson, who represents Sedgefield, was also assaulted.

Joyce also apologised to Tory councillors Luke Mackenzie and Ben Maney, whom he hit, to police officers who attended the incident and to "everyone else affected by my actions that evening".

"That will clearly not be an exhaustive list," he told the House.

He said that on the night "the standard of my conduct fell egregiously below what is required by a member of this House, or indeed anyone, anywhere".

And he added: "Clearly I have a number of personal issues to address, and you can be assured that this will take place."