The Speaker is an MP who has been elected to act as Chair during debates in the House of Commons. They are responsible for ensuring that the rules laid down by the House for the carrying out of its business are observed. It is the Speaker who calls MPs to speak and maintains order in the House. He or she is elected by MPs in the House of Commons but then ceases to be involved in party politics.
Further information on this subject can be found from the following links.
Guides to People, Events and Places: The Speaker of the House of Commons ( PDF 773 KB)
About Parliament: The Speaker
Parliamentary Information List: Speakers of the House of Commons since 1258
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