Why John Bercow Remains the Speaker of the House of Commons Despite Claims of Bias

The debate over John Bercow's suitability as the Speaker of the House of Commons has recently intensified, with some arguing that he should step down despite his ongoing role. Critics often claim that Bercow has a clear bias and that he acted like a dictator, rewriting laws and behaving arrogantly. However, these statements are fundamentally flawed.

Asserting Unbiased Standing

John Bercow is an important figure in the UK’s political landscape, renowned for his efforts to maintain impartiality. It is crucial to understand his fundamental role in the House of Commons. The Speaker is meant to be the neutral voice of the House, representing the interests of Members of Parliament (MPs) against the government. His role is to uphold the constitution and the rules of the House, ensuring a fair and impartial environment.

Andrea Leadsom's frustration stems from the perception that Bercow is not acting in favor of the government, who has been accused of breaking constitutional norms. However, it is important to consider the following points:

The government has a smaller-than-required majority, which means that the need for impartiality is heightened. The government’s actions have been questioned, and Bercow has upheld the principles of the constitution, even when it has meant challenging government decisions. The current political landscape does not present a single, majorconstitutional issue that would significantly impact future decades.

The Role of Election and Appointment

Bercow was elected as the Speaker at the beginning of the current session of Parliament, and while some members of the Conservative Party have expressed dissatisfaction, his position can only change with the next session or through resignation. His tenure is a result of a fair and transparent process, and it is unlikely that external pressures, such as racist elements within the party, will influence the outcome.

Impact on Brexit

The role of Speaker Bercow has been both supportive and challenging for both Brexit and Remain supporters. His decisions have helped and hindered both sides, but his primary focus has always been on upholding the principles of fair play and constitutional integrity.

Despite some concerns, Bercow has not bent over backwards to allow the government to run roughshod over Constitutional and democratic norms. Instead, his decisions reflect a commitment to ensuring that all actions adhere to the established conventions. His tendency to block the government more often than the opposition is a result of the government's willingness to engage in more controversial and unconstitutional practices.

Conclusion

The debate surrounding John Bercow’s suitability as Speaker highlights the complexities of maintaining impartiality in a highly charged political environment. Bercow’s appointment was democratically voted upon, and his ongoing role reflects a commitment to upholding constitutional and democratic principles. As the next session of Parliament approaches, it is crucial to ensure that the role remains a place of impartiality and fairness for all MPs.