TWITTER users have hit out at the BBC's "frankly pathetic" hounding of Speaker John Bercow.

A BBC reporter quizzed Bercow on ruling out a third meaningful vote unless Theresa May brings a new deal to the Commons. 

By invoking the so-called 1604 rule, Bercow has thrown down the gauntlet to the PM and her Government.

The only way forward for them is to either change the standing orders of the Commons – they do not have the majority for that – or end the Parliamentary session by calling a general election.

"It's a very old rule", the BBC journalist said, running behind Bercow as he tries to get away.

Trying to distract the reporter, Bercow comments on someone's hat and says the reporter should have accepted his "kind offer" of tea or coffee.

"I'm sure people are so very grateful to you for showing such an interest at this time in the morning ... well done," he says sarcastically.

But the reporter kept persisting, saying Bercow said in January that "Parliament can't rely on old precedents".

READ MORE: Explained: The '1604 rule' cited by Speaker ... and a question for all Scots

Bercow told the reporter to be careful as he crossed the road, saying "I'm not going to sacrifice myself because of you. I know you attach great weight to what I think."

When asked if he is trying to delay Brexit, Bercow does not reply and keeps walking away. 

As the BBC reporter continues to ask the same questions, Bercow says: "Perhaps gentleman, you would allow me to proceed to work. Have a good day, thank you."

Twitter users were quick to point out how inappropriate the BBC's persistent harassment of Bercow was, with one suggesting he should put on a mask of Scottish Tory leader Ruth Davidson.

Others Tweeters pointed out how serious harassment is. Clause 3 of the Indpependent Press Standards Oragnisation's Editors' Code says journalists "must not engage in intimidation, harassment or persistent pursuit".

Others hit out at the BBC's unbalanced reporting, saying that the broadcaster will hold anyone to account apart from the Tories.