Bercow pushes for job of Speaker
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The Conservative backbencher John Bercow has stepped up his campaign to replace Michael Martin as Speaker of the House of Commons, emailing all 646 MPs to ask for their support and outline his "vision for the role".
In a seven-page document, Mr Bercow sets out his credentials, saying: "I have a track record of political independence, pursue unfashionable but important causes on a non-partisan basis, and can demonstrate competence in chairing and communicating."
Mr Bercow goes on to explain that the next Speaker "faces an unprecedented challenge... to clean up politics". He addresses the expenses scandal with the insistence that Parliament should "accept external advice on a new allowances system"; advocates an "enhanced scrutiny both of policy and of legislation" by backbenchers; and says that the role of Speaker should be one of an "ambassador" – "both a speaker and a listener".
After two Labour Speakers, it is thought that the next Speaker will be a Tory, but while Mr Bercow has wide support among Labour MPs, he is unpopular within his own party. Michael Martin will leave his post on 21 June and his replacement will be chosen in a secret ballot the next day.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
0Comments