Sponsored by
Time will tell for Bercow in new role as Speaker
Although MPs who become Speaker are generally unopposed by the major political parties at General Elections, John Bercow will now face a challenge on at least two fronts.
Mr Bercow has said he does not believe his constituency role will be affected by his prestigious new position, which, given the never ending expenses saga, could make him one of the most important Speakers in recent years. Time will tell.
The question electors will have to consider though is can he continue to represent them in an effective way?
He will no longer be able to contribute to parliamentary debates although he will be able to write letters to represent his constituents' views adding to the mountain of paperwork ministers and local government already face.
The UKIP candidate for Buckingham in the next general election says Mr Bercow never seems to get involved with local issues and hasn't been that active in his community.
So is he fighting an uphill battle now he is Speaker?
The last two election results have seen Mr Bercow sweep all opponents aside to romp to victory so he must be doing something right.
But Patrick Phillips says Mr Bercow has abandoned the priniciples that have brought him such success and believes that people should be given an alternative choice.
It is vital that Mr Bercow effectively balances his two roles and, if he can't achieve that, the voters will hold him to account.
After all, isn't that what democracy is all about?
What do you think? Let us have your views by using the comments section below.
Email to a friend
Print this page
Looking for...
Featured advertisers
Jobs
Search for a job
Motors
Search for a car
Property
Search for a house
Weather for Aylesbury
Saturday 26 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 11 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 11 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 15 mph
Wind direction: East
