Speaker Martin apologises for role in expenses scandal

The Speaker has faced calls from MPs, including Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg, to stand down because of his handling of the expenses crisis. Prime Minister Gordon Brown has held back from defending the Speaker saying that his fate is a matter for the House of Commons

The crisis came to a head last week when the Telegraph started publishing leaked information about extravagant expenses claims by MPs from all parties.

Mr Martin has had Parliament fight costly and unsuccessful legal battles in the past to prevent the disclosure of MP's expense claims. In addition, last week he was criticised for an outburst against an MP who chided him for his handling of the crisis.

Speaking today in the House of Commons, Mr Martin said, "Please allow me to say to the men and women of the United Kingdom that we have let you down very badly indeed."

"We must all accept blame and to the extent that I have contributed to this situation I am profoundly sorry."

The Speaker also said that he would be convening a meeting with the Prime Minister and the leaders of other parties "as a matter of urgency".

Despite the apology a number of MP's rounded on Mr Martin. Labour MP Gordon Prentice asked about a no confidence motion which has been tabled against the Speaker. Mr Martin responded that it was not a "point of order".

Conservative MP Douglas Carswell, who put forward the no confidence motion, said that a new Speaker was needed to reform the current system of expenses. However Mr Martin said that it was not a "substantive motion, it's an early day motion".

Labour MP David Winnick also asked when the Speaker would retire, saying that his early retirement "would help the reputation of the House". Mr Martin responded saying that was"not a subject for today".