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 Canadian House of Commons election, 2011 Speaker of the Canadian House of Commons election, 2011 An election for Speaker of the House of Commons of Canada was held on June 2, 2011, at the beginning of the first session of the 41st Canadian House of Commons, following the 2011 federal election. Andrew Scheer won the election after six ballots, becoming the youngest Speaker (and first representing Saskatchewan) in Canada's history. He replaced Peter Milliken, who held office for a decade but stood down at the May 2, 2011 general election. Speakers are elected by secret ballot of all MPs. All MPs except for Cabinet ministers and