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
1951 Speaker of the British House of Commons election motion, originally to elect Morrison. He was proposed by Sir Hugh O'Neill and seconded by Sir Ralph Glyn. Samuel Viant then moved an amendment to the original motion to elect Major James Milner, who was then seconded by David Logan. Both Morrison and Milner then gave their speeches of submission to the will of the House. MPs voted on the motion that Morrison take the Chair as Speaker, which was approved by 318 votes to 251. Morrison was then conducted to the Chair by O'Neill and Glyn. 1951 Speaker of the British House of Commons election The 1951 election of