Bercow faces new allegations of bullying an aide

JOHN BERCOW last night faced fresh claims of “bullying” after a former member of his staff said the Speaker of the House of Commons subjected him to angry outbursts and obscene language.

Angus Sinclair, a former private secretary to the Speaker, said Mr Bercow’s alleged behaviour made him feel as if the “dignity had been removed” from his role. Mr Bercow faced calls in March to resign after similar allegations were made against him. He has denied all allegations of bullying.

Mr Sinclair told the BBC’S Newsnight he had been subjected to mimicry, felt undermined and had a mobile phone smashed on the desk in front of him. He said he was paid £86,250 in 2010 as part of a deal that required him to sign a non-disclosure agreement.

Mr Sinclair breached the terms of the agreement in speaking to Newsnight. A spokesman for the Speaker said he “strenuously denies” the claims.