In a statement yesterday, the backbencher said that his comment was misunderstood.
He said: ‘In my speech, I stated that we all look to different inspirational figures for our moral and political guidance.
‘I used the example of the well-known motto “What would Jesus do?”, before stating, rhetorically and ironically, “Of course, Jesus would be at the Tory conference or an Institute of Directors dinner”.
‘Before I could finish my train of argument, I was interrupted by the Bailiff, who said my comment was offensive and asked me to withdraw it.
‘I did not, as the comment was not offensive but standard political discourse, as he would have found out had I been allowed to continue.
‘This was a contravention of my parliamentary privilege, and it is an important principle that elected members be able to express themselves freely.’
He added: ‘Others have commented that this is not the first time that the Bailiff has overstepped the mark into the political.
‘It is likely that this latest episode will add to growing calls for the States to be chaired by someone other than a senior member of the judiciary.’
The Deputy thanked Senator Gorst for defending him.
Deputy Tadier’s removal ftom the States caused the MTFP debate to be delayed by an hour.
Sharon Cox: The problem has been highlighted again that in having the Bailiff in charge of the Chamber we have the people we voted for gaged by a person who does not have a public vote.
John Mcnichol: It beggars belief that a politician trying to have a serious debate on economic policies that will have devastating implications to real people is thrown out of an alleged modern democratic chamber for a perceived insult to a conceptual religious figure. Should the position of Bailiff now be reviewed?
Chantelle Mundy: The point is, Montfort clearly offended the Bailiff and his beliefs and when asked to retract his comments he should have realised the offence caused and how unnecessary bringing Jesus into his point was. He should have apologised and moved on, like an adult.
Carol Hector: Good for them all walking out, this is so pathetic in this day and age getting upset about a comment about ‘Jesus’. Really!
Josh Tully: Religion and politics don’t mix. Look at America.
Paul Matthews: Pathetic. How can our government continue to take themselves seriously after doing this to Monty? They will be burning witches next.