Lord Falconer could face a parliamentary investigation, after dismissing a member of staff, allegedly partly because she gave evidence to MPs that was critical of the government.

An inquiry by the constitutional affairs select committee found that the treatment of Judy Weleminsky, a former member of the Children and Family Court Advisory Service, "might be regarded as a prima facie breach of [parliamentary] privilege".

After a report was published by the committee, including Ms Weleminsky's evidence, the lord chancellor invited members of CAFCAS to resign.

After she refused, Lord Falconer informed her in writing that he was "minded" to sack her.

MPs will today debate whether to refer the case to the Commons committee on standards and privileges.