Bercow: enemies don’t think I fit in the Lords

JOHN BERCOW has provided the clearest hint yet that he is being investigated over bullying allegations, as he claimed his “enemies” decided he wasn’t a suitable “fit” to receive a peerage.

The former Commons speaker has repeatedly denied accusations he mistreated parliamentary officials during his tenure.

But concerns about Mr Bercow’s “propriety” were put forward as the reason for Downing Street vetoing his nomination to be elevated to the House of Lords. Asked on BBC Radio 4’s

Any Questions whether he was being investigated by the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards, Mr Bercow said: “I think it’s better just to reserve the position that it’s a private and confidential matter. In due course, people will know what the truth is.” Pressed on whether he had reflected on his past conduct following criticism of his treatment of officials, he said: “Did I make mistakes from time to time? Yes. Did I occasionally lose my rag in the chamber? Was I periodically irascible? Yes, of course,” but he added: “I don’t think I ever bullied anyone anywhere in any way at any time.”

The former Buckingham MP is the first Speaker in more than 200 years not to have been nominated for the Lords by the Government after stepping down.

Conceding he made “enemies” during his 10 years in the job, Mr Bercow admitted he was disappointed not to be elevated to the Lords. “I am sorry about it. There are people who have got grievances and agendas who think I just don’t fit,” he said.