SPEAKER MUST GO NOW - WILLIAMS

11.49.19am BST (GMT +0100) Mon 18th May 2009

Commenting ahead of the Speaker's statement on MPs' expenses, Liberal Democrat Shadow Secretary of State for Wales Roger Williams MP said:

"It has become clear over the last week that the Speaker's position is now untenable.

"The Speaker has failed to implement the necessary reforms over the last few years, and we need someone new and untainted in the post to regain a semblance of public trust and to push through urgently needed changes.

"MPs should not believe for a second that getting rid of the Speaker is a quick fix that will restore Parliament's reputation. Those who have committed expenses abuses must face the consequences of their actions.

"But it is now obvious to everyone that the Speaker is not the man for this job."