House of Commons Speaker, John Bercow, has said he would stand down at the next election or on 31 October, whichever comes first.
Mr Bercow announced this on Monday in parliament.
[ads]
He said his 10-year “tenure” was nearing its end and it had been the “greatest honour and privilege” to serve.
The speaker said that if there were no early election, leaving on 31 October would be the “least disruptive and most democratic” exit.
Bercow, a former member of the Conservative Party, succeeded the late Michael Martin as Speaker in 2009.
His decision to step down comes as the latest in the Brexit storm which has consumed several UK leaders.
[ads]
Bercow has come under fierce criticism from Brexiteers who have questioned his impartiality as Prime Minister Boris Johnson looks to suspend the parliament until October 14.
Mr Johnson has repeatedly said he would take Britain out of the European Union on October 31, with or without a deal.
