THE RIGHT HON. LORD MICHAEL MARTIN OF SPRINGBURN AND PORT DUNDAS

That this House expresses its deep regret and sadness at the death of the right hon. Lord Michael Martin of Springburn and Port Dundas; recognises that Michael had diligently represented the communities in the north-east of Glasgow as a Councillor and hon. Member for over three decades, spanning seven general elections; notes that he was a decent and compassionate man who rose from Springburn sheet metal worker to become the first Roman Catholic Speaker of the House of Commons since the Reformation, and the first working-class trade unionist to serve in the Chair of the Commons; and believes his life to be testament that ordinary citizens can reach the highest offices of state through hard work and commitment to the representation of the people.