Speaker's Conference Announced

On 12 November 2008 the House agreed to establish a new committee, to be chaired by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Michael Martin MP and known as the Speaker's Conference.

The Conference has been asked to: "Consider, and make recommendations for rectifying, the disparity between the representation of women, ethnic minorities and disabled people in the House of Commons and their representation in the UK population at large". It may also agree to consider other associated matters.

The Speaker's Conference has until the end of the Parliament to conduct its inquiries.

More about current Speaker's Conference

What is a Speaker's Conference? A Speaker's Conference is convened by the Speaker of the House of Commons following an invitation from the Prime Minister. Under the impartial leadership of the Speaker, MPs from both the major and minority parties are brought together to consider issues within the electoral system.

How is the Conference established? The House of Commons has agreed to establish the Conference as a Committee of the House, so that it will report to the House (previous Conferences have reported to the Prime Minister). The Speaker has appointed 17 other members to serve on the Conference under his leadership, with Miss Anne Begg MP acting as vice-chairman.

Membership of the Speaker's Conference

How will the Conference go about it's work? Previous Conferences have operated in a manner similar to a Select Committee and have heard evidence from witnesses.

Information supplied by UK Parliament

Last Updated on Saturday, 14 February 2009 17:34