Martin: Returned to chair

Michael Martin has been returned to parliament as the speaker of the House of Commons.

Under centuries old electoral practice, the speaker stands independent of party in his constituency.

By convention the main parties do not contest the speaker's seat, although Martin faced several candidates from smaller parties.

The SNP, the BNP and the Scottish Socialists were all represented on the ballot paper in Glasgow North East.

But Martin polled 15,153 - comfortably ahead of the 5,019 votes for the SNP.

Next Wednesday Martin, the 156th Commons speaker, will be sworn in for a third time. By convention the speaker is automatically re-elected until he or she chooses to retire.

Despite some speculation that he would stand aside before the general election, Martin is likely to continue in the chair for a further two to three years. That would pave the way for the election of a new speaker mid-way through the coming parliament.

Following two successive speakers from the Labour benches, it is likely that MPs will choose a Conservative MP to chair Commons proceedings.

Former Tory minister Sir George Young is considered favourite for the a post which comes with a £130,000 salary and a plush grace and favour residence overlooking the Thames.

However, he may face a contest with a rival Conservative, such as Sir Patrick Cormack, or Liberal Democrat Sir Menzies Campbell.