ESSEX MPs clashed in Parliament during a debate on plans to reform the House of Lords.

Sir Bob Russell, Lib Dem MP for Colchester, challenged Conservative North Essex MP, Bernard Jenkin during a speech in the House of Commons.

Mr Jenkin was speaking in opposition of proposals for an entirely elected House of Lords in the Conservative’s biggest back-bench rebellion since they took joint power.

Sir Bob, who supports the changes, interrupted to ask Mr Jenkin if he would like to see the Lib Dem - Tory coalition Government collapse.

The exchange came during the Government’s second reading of the Bill proposing the changes on Tuesday.

Mr Jenkin simply replied: “No”, before returning to his speech.

Speaking to the Gazette after the showdown, Mr Jenkin said: “Bob’s intervention came during my speech and I only had six minutes to talk.

“He inferred I wanted the coalition to collapse. I answered no, but it is not recorded in Hansard.

“I really didn’t spend much time on it. He tried again later and I ignored that too.”

Mr Jenkin was among 91 Conservative MPs, joined by some Labour MPs, who voted against the second reading.

Dozens more abstained.

Sir Bob voted in favour.

It was approved by an overwhelming majority but plans for a timetable to speed up proceedings were thrown out.

Mr Jenkin said: “I think the reforms are completely unnecessary.

“The House of Lords works very well as revising chamber.

“An elected house would work like the House of Commons and introduce too much party politics.

“The Lords have alot of experience and expertise.”

Sir Bob was unavailable for comment.