Winston Peters drew the ire of the Speaker in Parliament today for saying "some doctors make you sick" in reference to National MP Dr Nick Smith.

The Deputy Prime Minister's comments came after Dr Smith interjected when he was being questioned by National MP Todd McClay over the Government's response to the Salisbury nerve agent attack in the UK.

Speaker Trevor Mallard reacted to the interjection first, simply saying "Dr Smith" before Mr Peters cut in saying "well he may be a doctor to you".

Mr Peters was then made to withdraw and apologise by the Speaker, which he did with another quip added on to his apology.

"I withdraw and apologise sir, but there are some doctors that make you well and some make you sick," he said, drawing laughs.

The Speaker however was not impressed, this time asking the Deputy Prime Minister to "withdraw and apologise unreservedly".