Drive to unseat Speaker gathers pace

Speaker Michael Martin today faced an open revolt against his authority.

At least seven MPs from all main parties were said to have signed a motion of no confidence in Mr Martin.

Ministers were understood to be among the MPs actively discussing in the corridors and bars at Westminster how to oust the Speaker.

Labour backbencher Paul Flynn said that he and his colleague Gordon Prentice, both members of the Commons public administration committee, were putting their names to the motion tabled by Tory MP Douglas Carswell.

"It's a heart-stopping thing for most MPs to attack the Speaker. It's like heckling in church," said Mr Flynn.

"It is hoped our action will embolden other MPs to say what is in their hearts."

While praising Mr Martin as "affable and engaging", he condemned his behaviour during the expenses scandal as "petulant".

The Speaker stunned MPs by turning on backbenchers who have called for greater openness over MPs expenses,

"He has made a disastrous situation worse," said Mr Flynn.

"As a Speaker he lacks authority and the leadership skills essential to win back the public's confidence in Parliament."

Former home secretary Charles Clarke told the New Statesman that he regarded Mr Martin's performance as "utterly deplorable".

Liberal Democrat MP Norman Baker added: "It's clear that the Speaker has run out of road. He would do himself and Parliament a good service by recognising that."

Mr Carswell said that at least six other MPs, including Shipley Conservative MP Philip Davies, had agreed to sign his Commons motion which he is due to table within days.

However, many of the backbenchers supporting him are seen as mavericks and more heavyweight figures would be needed to mount any decisive move against Mr Martin.

The motion states: "This House has no confidence in Mr Speaker and calls for him to step down.

"Mr Speaker has failed to provide leadership in matters relating to hon. Members' expenses. A new Speaker urgently needs to be elected."

Mr Carswell said today: "The expenses fiasco shows just how desperately we need to reform Westminster.

"Michael Martin is, with great respect for him, not the man to do that."

He stressed that seeking to oust the Speaker had not happened for at least 300 years.

Sir John Trevor was expelled from Parliament in March 1695 after taking a £1,000 bribe from the Corporation of London.