John Bercow has said MPs have expressed support for his plans to reshape the Commons and boost the work of backbenchers.
The Commons Speaker spent the summer recess working on 10 proposed reforms.
His plans come after the influence and relevance of MPs was called into question following the expenses revelations.
And in an interview with the House Magazine, he said: "As well as cleaning up the system, we have got to strengthen the powers of Parliament. That includes enhancing the role of the backbench member."
During summer recess he began to fulfil a manifesto promise to be a "robust advocate for democratic politics and an outward-facing ambassador for Parliament".
Bercow took tours of the Scottish Parliament and Welsh assembly, as well as holding a series of speaking engagements in schools.
The Speaker suggested that Parliament sit in September, and called for ministers in the House of Lords to face increased scrutiny.
Amongst his 10 reforms, Bercow also sets out proposals to move private member's bills to the middle of the week, and to allow greater scrutiny of delegated legislation and European business.
He said MPs have largely responded to his plans with enthusiasm.
The business secretary has still to make contact, but Bercow said: "The idea that Lord Mandelson would be inhibited by a bout of shyness is unimaginable."
The Speaker said he was clear that reform was required long before the expenses scandal broke, pointing to "a general sense for a long time that Parliament needs to be reformed, and that the role of a backbencher needs to be strengthened".
"For many years turnout has been declining, cynicism has been rising, discontent with the political process has been rampant," he explains.
"What I am concerned about is: Does the system work as it should at the moment? Are we blessed with an adequately powerful Parliament? Can we truly claim that the government is fully held to account?
"The answer to all three of those questions is no; in the future it needs to be yes."
While Bercow is keen to prompt change, he said his influence can only go so far.
"You can put in institutional mechanisms to facilitate that independence, but in the end MPs have to will the change," said Bercow.
"It is no good people saying 'I want Parliament to be stronger' and then, when you put them on the spot, say: 'Well John, I hope you'll understand that I'm very supportive of the principle – but of course, as you probably know, I'm a PPS or a junior shadow minister, so it's not something that I can get involved with.'
"Everyone has got to take a share of responsibility for this. If MPs want to enjoy respect, then they have to show self-respect. People have got to be prepared to be tough."
He continued: "I am happy to be judged on my track record over the last 12 years, my continuing commitment to the Buckingham constituency, and my determination to restore faith in Parliament."
Bercow indicated that the general election is a perfect opportunity to force through lasting parliamentary reform.
He said: "Let there be a great battle of ideas – or a coming together between the parties of thoughts as to the shape, the operation, the vigour and rigour of the next Parliament.
"These should be the matters that are the stuff of debate at the general election."
