Few MPs backing move to oust Commons Speaker John Bercow

A bid to oust House of Commons Speaker John Bercow appears to be faltering after just four extra MPs signed a motion of no confidence in him.

Following Mr Bercow's controversial comments about US president Donald Trump and Brexit, Tory former minister James Duddridge tabled the early day motion as MPs left for the February recess and claimed no Cabinet ministers were likely to support the Speaker in any vote.

Pressure on Mr Bercow mounted after his outspoken comments essentially banning Mr Trump from addressing MPs and peers in Westminster Hall during his forthcoming state visit.

Opposition to his position appeared to increase after a video emerged of him telling students that he voted Remain in the EU referendum.

But at the end of the first day back for MPs after recess there were only five backing the no-confidence motion - Tories Mr Duddridge, Alec Shelbrooke, Andrew Bridgen, Karl McCartney and Daniel Kawczynski.

Mr Duddridge said he believed around 20 other MPs could sign on Tuesday.

But he added: "People said, I'm going to sign if its 50 people or 100 people, so there is safety in numbers, so we will wait and see."

Last week it emerged Mr Bercow has received more than 4,000 letters and emails about his decision on Mr Trump.

The vast majority of the communications (3,227) were supportive of Mr Bercow's attack on Mr Trump, while 854 opposed his position, figures released in response to a freedom of information request revealed.

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