New Speaker John Bercow denies he is unpopular

The new Commons Speaker John Bercow has begun his first full session in the role by telling the House to avoid long-winded questions and answers. Shunning the formal attire worn by his predecessors, he took to the Chair in a smart suit and simple gown. Junior health minister Ann Keen congratulated him on his victory in Monday's election as he chaired his first question time session. Labour backbencher John Robertson said he hoped Mr Bercow would receive "a lot more good luck and good will" than some of his predecessors. Mr Bercow began the session by telling MPs and ministers to keep it brief as he was determined to make "good progress" through the list of questions. One of the criticisms levelled at Mr Bercow during his campaign was that at 46 he was too young to hold the post. Shadow health secretary Andrew Lansley raised laughter at the despatch box when he said: "You know you're getting old when the Speaker looks young." A number of the defeated candidates for the speakership were in the Chamber to see Mr Bercow's debut, including Labour's Parmjit Dhanda and Tories Sir Patrick Cormack and Sir George Young.

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ITN | June 23, 2009

Tags:. .formal. .debut. .box. .speakership. .unpopular