October 7, 1731
A complaint is made to the House of Commons that Mr Anthony Tenison did, in a violent and notorious manner, assault John Bourke, Esq
Ireland
This historical incident refers to a formal complaint made to the Irish House of Commons involving Mr. Anthony Tenison, who was accused of violently assaulting John Bourke, Esq., a sitting Member of Parliament, on 30 December (year not specified in your message). The details state that Tenison:
- Presented a pistol to John Bourke’s chest,
- Threatened to shoot him,
- And did so in what was described as a violent and notorious manner.
Such an act would have been treated with utmost seriousness by Parliament. Assaulting an MP, particularly with a deadly weapon, was not only a criminal offense but also considered a breach of parliamentary privilege — an affront to the dignity and independence of the legislative body.
Possible Consequences at the Time:
- The matter would likely have been investigated by a parliamentary committee.
- If substantiated, Tenison could have faced arrest, prosecution, or public censure.
- The Commons might also have called for him to be brought to the bar of the House to explain his conduct or imprisoned by order of the House.
On December 30, a complaint was brought before the Irish House of Commons that Mr. Anthony Tenison had assaulted MP John Bourke by pointing a pistol at his chest and threatening to shoot him — an act described as violent and notorious.