UNPARLIAMENTARY LANGUAGE The language used in the House must conform with a number of rules. In the past, objection has been made to insulting, coarse, or abusive language - especially directed at another member - and to accusations of drunkenness, false motives, and lying. The Speaker can direct a Member who has used an unsuitable word or phrase to withdraw it. Blackguard, coward, guttersnipe, rat, swine, and traitor are all among the words which Speakers have objected to over the years. However, the cleverest members have often found ways to get round the rules - for example, when Winston Churchill substituted the phrase 'terminological inexactitude' for 'lie'.