The Tory MP Nigel Mills has apologised for playing the Candy Crush computer game on his iPad during a House of Commons committee hearing about pension reforms.
The MP, who is defending a tiny majority in the Derbyshire seat of Amber Valley, was reported by the Sun to have been playing the game for more than two hours while attending an evidence session of the Commons work and pensions committee.
Mills initially admitted “probably having a game or two” but insisted he had been fully engaged in asking questions. David Cameron said Mills would be embarrassed by his conduct but was a hardworking MP who fought hard for his constituency.
In a series of three tweets, Mills said: “I apologise unreservedly for my behaviour at the committee meeting and realise it fell short of what is expected of a member of parliament. I guarantee it will not happen again. It is a fantastic privilege to represent Amber Valley, and I hope constituents will continue to support my campaigns such as lower taxes for hard-working people.”
Bookmakers have said the MP is odds on to lose his seat to Labour at next year’s general election and his conduct is not likely to have enhanced his chances.
A video were taken of the MP playing the game so the House of Commons has launched a leak inquiry into the source of the Sun’s story, saying it broke parliamentary rules about photographs on the Westminster estate.
“This was a breach of the filming rules for House of Commons committee rooms, and will be investigated by the serjeant at arms,” a spokesman said. Anyone found to have broken the rules could have their parliamentary pass withdrawn.
