Speaker of the House of Commons (United Kingdom) Michael Martin, also declined to wear the wig; moreover, he chose to simplify other aspects of the costume, doing away with the once customary buckled court shoes and silk stockings. His successor John Bercow abandoned traditional dress, wearing a plain black gown over his lounge suit when presiding. For ceremonial occasions such as the State Opening, the Speaker wears a black and gold robe with a train; previously, this was worn over court dress with a white waterfall cravat, but the present Speaker wears plain morning dress. Whilst presiding, the Speaker sits in a chair at the front of the
Speaker of the House of Commons (Canada) in the House of Commons, ultimately becoming party leader and Leader of the Opposition. On March 9, 2016 Liberal MP Mauril Bélanger served as honorary Speaker for about an hour to honour his years of service. Speaker Regan resumed his duties for the remainder of the sitting of the House. Mauril Bélanger was initially the front runner for the current role, but declined due to his being diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Bélanger died on August 15, 2016, five months after being named honorary Speaker. The Speaker's counterpart in the upper house is the Speaker of the Senate of Canada.