Richard Madely confronted the head of the British Railways Union on Good Morning on Tuesday after the RMT general secretary accused him of “the most notorious riot” in an interview.

Mick Lynch appeared on ITV’s breakfast show to discuss this week’s rail strike following a debate over wages, working hours and conditions.

Richard began the interview by asking if Lynch was a Marxist.

The presenter said: In recent weeks you have been heavily criticized for Marxism.

“This was repeated last night when Conservative lawmakers said you were a ‘Marxist with no other interest than trying to overthrow the government.’

“Are you a Marxist now?” If you are a Marxist, you are in a revolution and trying to overthrow capitalism. And what about you? “

Lynch laughed and replied, “Richard, I have to say that sometimes you think of the most incredible fights. It’s silly to hold an interview with this.”

“My, my, I didn’t say you were a Marxist,” Richard replied. “I say they blame you for Marxism, and it’s called a report.”

Lynch said, “No, I’m not a Marxist. I’m an RMT elected official. I’m a working class bloc dealing with union disputes over work, pay, terms and services. What is Marxism?” It doesn’t matter… it’s an industrial dispute.”

Ricardo goes on to say: “I emphasize that I do not speak or blame Marxism. I only quote those people, including many newspapers.”

“Sounds like me,” Lynch said.

Then Richard said, “I’m sorry, but I don’t think so.”