Knives out for Bercow

This week John Bercow was accused of double standards after he announced that he would not allow President Trump to address both Houses of Parliament. Putting aside the times world leaders with questionable human rights records have (a) addressed the House, and (b) shared tea with the Speaker, Bercow said Trump’s policies meant he was unworthy of the honour.

Given that Bercow’s role is meant to be ‘non-political’, his comments have rattled many Conservative MPs who view it to be grandstanding in its worst form. So, is Bercow’s time up? Mr S understands Tory backbenchers are plotting to table a vote of no confidence in the Speaker. James Duddridge has written to the Prime Minister to request that — in the event of a motion of no-confidence — ministers would be allowed a free vote.

Should they succeed, it’s Lindsay Hoyle who is the favourite to be his successor. While Chris Bryant is eyeing up the role, there are concerns in Tory circles that his outspoken views would mean a Bercow 2.0