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The beauty contest for the Speaker of the House of Commons, the most democratically important position in the country comes to a head today (Monday), and it amazes me that it's not a more inspiring field of runners and riders to choose from.
The names in the frame are Margaret Beckett, Alan Beith, John Bercow, Patrick Cormack, Parmjit Dhanda, Alan Haselhurst, Michael Lord, Richard Shepherd, Ann Widdecombe and George Young.
I have emailed my MP (Nigel Waterson) and told him who I would like him to vote for, and that's Ann Widdecombe. The reason is that she wants to be an 'interim' speaker just up until the next General Election, and then there could be another speaker election, perhaps with a better selection of candidates.
Margaret Beckett is apparently the favourite (surprisingly, given that she was a Government Minister until just a couple of weeks ago). But for most of last week the name of John Bercow has been touted as favourite with many Labour MPs wanting him because they know he is loathed by most Tories.
I do hope the speaker isn't chosen on this basis. It is vital, especially given what's been happening recently with the expenses scandal, that the best person for the job actually gets the job, and not the one who will most wind up the opposition.
And there is also a strong case for a Tory this time as the previous two speakers have been Labour (the normal convention is that it alternates, although that isn't vital).
I had originally wanted Frank Field to get the vote, as he is one of the best, and most independently minded MPs in the House. But he, consistent as ever, withdrew from the contest because he knew he couldn't get the backing from across the House. Frank is a Labour MP, but unpopular with many of his colleagues due to his honesty and integrity for speaking up for what he believes in – he's a genuine conviction politican.
John Bercow has a way with words. But what he possesses in oratory skills, he lacks in deep conviction, and as a result he has very little support on the Conservative side. His political journey over the last few years has seen him go from right to left on the political spectrum, and you would think that for similar reasons as Frank Field he would have withdrawn from the race as he clearly doesn't gain support from his own side. But no.
Mr Bercow has done good work on highlighting some human rights issues, notably in Burma, but he is selective as to which ones he chooses and goes with the popular choice on most issues, so his depth as a politician is a bit iffy, to say the least.
And as for Ann Widdecombe - even left wingers like Johann Hari (Independent commentator) thinks she is the right person for the job, so it's obvious that she will get support right across Parliament, and should definitely get the job. She is in a class of her own, and everyone knows she doesn't change her political views for expedience.
Being hugely recognisable and respected in the country, Ann is able to restore faith in the political system, and I hope she gets the chance. We should know the result by the end of Monday afternoon.
Tennis
Caroline Wozniacki won the AEGON sponsored Eastbourne tennis this year. Sadly I didn't manage to get there, but I heard it was an excellent tournament. I am looking forward to Wimbledon for the next fortnight, and my tips for the titles are Andy Murray and Venus Williams.
Have a great week friends!
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Weather for Eastbourne
Saturday 11 February 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: -6 C to 2 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
Wind direction: North east
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 2 C to 3 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: North west
