Labour MP Eric Joyce, who attacked rival Conservatives in a late-night brawl at a House of Commons bar last month was fined £3,000 today after admitting assault.
The incident happened in the Strangers' Bar at Westminster when Joyce (51), who had been drinking, attacked four politicians.
Witnesses said at the time the incident resembled a Wild West saloon bust-up as the Falkirk MP headbutted one Conservative MP and lashed out at two Tory councillors and a Labour Whip who tried to intervene.
Westminster Magistrates Court heard he told police as they arrived on the scene: "You can't touch me, I'm an MP."
Joyce, who admitted four counts of assault, expresses his "shame and embarrassment", said Jeremy Dein, defending.
"He is unreservedly apologetic for what occurred on the night in question," Mr Dein said.
Afterwards, the former Army Education Corps officer, who has been suspended by Labour and has said he will not seek re-election in the next parliament, told reporters: "I think drink was an aggravating factor, that's something I have to deal with personally. Not everyone who drinks gets involved in fights.
"It's a matter of considerable personal shame," he said. "I have been lucky to avoid prison."
Joyce was also given a 12-month community order banning him from entering pubs and licensed premises for three months, along with a curfew order from Fridays to Sundays.
Reuters