Speaker of the House of Commons

An MP who has been elected to act as Chairman during debates in the House of Commons. They are responsible for making sure that the rules laid down by the House are observed, and that order is maintained.

The Speaker protects the interests of minorities in the House, and ensures that the holders of an opinion, however unpopular, are allowed to put across their view without undue obstruction. They are responsible for reprimanding any disobedience by MPs (see Naming of a Member), and can suspend a member from the House if necessary.

Once elected by the Commons to the post, the Speaker remains an MP, dealing with constituent's letters and problems. However, they must remain impartial in the House, and cannot be involved in party politics or vote in any debate. The only exception to this rule is if there is a tied result, when they must give the casting vote. However, this happens only rarely (the last time was in 1980), and the Speaker will always follow certain voting conventions in these cases.

The Speaker has three Deputies to assist with Parliamentary Business.

See also Deputy Speaker.