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Bercow named new UK speaker

Michael Martin - Stepped down over expense scandal
Michael Martin - Stepped down over expense scandal

Tory John Bercow has won the race to become Speaker of Britain's House of Commons.

The Conservative Buckingham MP led the voting throughout, and beat off the challenge of rival Sir George Young in a dramatic head-to-head.

Mr Bercow secured 322 backers in the third round, compared with 271 for the North West Hampshire MP.

After the result was announced to a packed chamber, the new Speaker was 'dragged' to the chair in a traditional ritual.

He said: 'I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the confidence that you have placed in me.'

Mr Bercow replaces former speaker Michael Martin, who stepped down after criticism of his handling of the scandal over MPs' expenses.