Michael Martin yesterday became the first Commons Speaker to be forced from office in more than 300 years, as Britain's political class attempted to clear the air from a damaging expenses scandal.
After fighting for days to save his job, Mr Martin decided to bow to his critics and leave early after realising that he no longer carried the confidence of senior party leaders and MPs.
“In order that unity can be maintained, I have decided that I will relinquish the office of Speaker,” he said in a brief statement to a packed Commons.
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