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Who could restore Parliament’s reputation?
19.05.09
Sir George Young
The “bicycling baronet” is a former minister seen by many Tories as the perfect antidote to Martin's regime. Urbane, eloquent and impeccably fair, he has impressed in his chairmanship of the anti-sleaze Standards and Privileges Committee. Seen as the main Tory contender.
Odds: 8-1
Frank Field
Maverick former welfare minister has independent spirit that many backbenchers believe is needed to restore Commons authority and protect Parliament from the Government. One of the few Labour MPs acceptable to Tories.
Odds: 4-1
Sir Alan Haselhurst
Currently Deputy Speaker and a Tory grandee, but revelations about his use of allowances — claiming £12,000 for gardening at his Essex home — could dent his chances. However he could be a safe choice given that Speakers are normally drawn from the ranks of the deputies.
Odds: 4-1
John Bercow
Tory MP who at 45 would be the youngest Speaker. Some Tories view him with suspicion, but many in Labour are impressed that he accepted a post to head a review of disabled children's services. Former Right-winger but now a moderniser.
Odds: 8-1
Sir Menzies Campbell
Until the past week, the former Lib-Dem leader was seen as the perfect “caretaker” Speaker, with the judgment and authority to lead the Commons out of troubles. But his shaky defence of his £1,000 expenses claims for refurbishing his London flat may have ruined his chances.
Odds: 10-1
Sylvia Heal
Deputy Speaker at the moment.
Well-liked by Labour backbenchers and seen as straight, if bland. Could have problems if the Tories decide to stand against her over MPs' expenses — she has a marginal seat.
Odds: 14-1
Odds from Ladbrokes
Reader views (3)
Time for the General election now. As for the new speaker, Ideally an independent, but for the love of God, not a sleazy old has been. MP's should stand down automatically when they reach their 65th birthday.
- Victor, London
The answer to the question posed in your headline is - the electorate. Let us have a general elction with each candidate's record on expenses known and the wheat will soon be separated from the chaff.
- James Elliott, Eastbourne UK
What about an election???? No one has faith in this present Parliament. Time for a change. Why do we need to wait 12 months? Those who did no wrong on expenses should have no more problem with their constituents on that score now as in 12 months' time. Time for change; time to stop the rot.
- Phil Jones, London UK
