Councillors had been discussing the scheme, which will see councils across Greater Manchester allocate land for homes over the next 15 years.

However, there are calls for Oldham to pull to protect the green belt.

During the meeting’s break, an argument arose between the deputy of the Oldham Conservatives Lewis Quigg and the Conservative leader Graham Sheldon. Quigg could be heard saying “I quit this party. You no longer have any say over me”.

Sheldon approached him and both councillors could then be seen squaring up to each other, with Quigg seen pushing Sheldon. The two men were separated by other Conservative councillors surrounding them.

Police were called and the meeting remained adjourned for an hour and 45 minutes, while officers took statements and political groups convened in private rooms to discuss how to move forward.

Once the meeting had resumed, councillors involved in the “aggressive behaviour” shown throughout the meeting were asked to apologise. But after Quigg refused to do so, the meeting was suspended.

Council leader, Labour’s Arooj Shah, told the chamber: “Shame on all of us for allowing this behaviour to continue and grow and stand here to proclaim we represent the people of the borough and their best interest when we conduct ourselves like this.”

Greater Manchester Police has been approached for details.