A Labor MP has apologised for his "heated words" to a television journalist questioning one of his colleagues about her citizenship status.
In footage aired on Wednesday, Tasmanian Brian Mitchell appears to call the ABC's Matt Wordsworth a "maggot" while attempting to stop him from speaking to fellow backbencher Justine Keay in a Parliament House courtyard.
Mr Wordsworth was seeking details from Ms Keay about when she renounced her British citizenship and if she should be referred to the High Court.
In a statement to parliament, Mr Mitchell - a former journalist and editor - said he had spoken to Mr Wordsworth and apologised for the encounter.
"I deeply respect the work that Mr Wordsworth and all his colleagues in the press gallery do and they should be free to do it without fear or favour," he said.
