Get ready for a little bit of history, as Michael Martin becomes the first Speaker to be pushed out of office in 300 years. We’ll have live commentary of his “resignation” statement from 1430 onwards. Stay tuned.
1418: Sky News are reporting that Martin will announce he’s stepping down in June.
1434: Martin has begun speaking to a packed House.
1435: He says he’s going to relinquish the office of Speaker on Sunday, 21st June, in order to “maintain unity” in the Commons. The next Speaker will be elected the day after.
1435: And, erm, that’s it.
1437: Incredibly short statement from Martin – businesslike and unemotional. I imagine he’d have found it difficult to say much more after his embarrassing performance yesterday.
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