Many a true word spoken in jest

The BBC's political correspondent, Nick Assinder, reports on his blog that "there is one issue on which they (MPs) simply will not speak publicly. It is on the relative merits of Commons Speaker Michael Martin, who will lead the review of the current system...Why are they so afraid to speak out? Just listen to Tory leader David Cameron when asked just such a question as he unveiled his proposals to publish his frontbenchers' expenses details. "I want to make sure I am called tomorrow at Prime Minister's Questions," he joked. At least, I think it was a joke."

Speaker Martin has little option other than to call upon David Cameron and Nick Clegg
at PMQs and other front bench spokesman at relevant debates, other MPs may feel less secure of being called if they speak out about Speaker Martin's position leading the review of the MPs expenses system.



Speaker Martin is renowned for many things but avoidance of political bias does not seem to be one of them. I wonder if he can be prevailed upon to quit his job at the next election or will his wife, Mary, miss the taxi allowance and free flights too much and persuade him to stay in post?