Capable of infuriating MPs, even in his referee role as Commons Speaker, Bercow is also seen by many as the backbenchers’ allyFor a man whose position is strictly non-partisan, the Commons Speaker, John Bercow, has provoked more fear, anger and adoration than any other in the role in recent history. Tory backbenchers were visibly enraged during the points of order after Bercow permitted the controversial amendment. He has dramatically increased the number of urgent questions which he grants to allow backbenchers to call cabinet ministers to the Commons. In a hung parliament, Bercow’s role has become one of the most important in the country. It is because of this power to shape the future of Brexit that some MPs have protected Bercow after the damning criticism in the Cox report.

Source: The Guardian January 09, 2019 19:52 UTC