Scott honoured by new role
FEDERAL LNP Member for Maranoa Bruce Scott said he was honoured to be elected to the role of Deputy Speaker in the House of Representatives last night after the dramatic resignation of Peter Slipper.
"I thank the House for their vote of confidence and I am truly humbled by the support I received," Mr Scott said.
"I look forward to my new role and I will do all I can to ensure the dignity and respect of the House is upheld.
"In what could only be described as a tumultuous day, I extend my congratulations to the newly elected Speaker of House - the Honourable Anna Burke MP."
Mr Scott was nominated by the Member for Sturt the Honourable Christopher Pyne MP and seconded by the Member for New England Tony Windsor MP.
Mr Scott won over ALP member for Hindmarsh Steve Georganas after MPs voted in a written secret ballot close to 9pm.
The vote followed the unopposed election of ALP member for Chisholm Anna Burke as Speaker, with the job of deputy traditionally going to a member of the opposition party as it is less political.
Mr Scott was recently re-endorsed as LNP candidate for Maranoa.
The next federal election is expected next September or October.
Mr Slipper resigned as Speaker following days of pressure over allegations of sexual misconduct involving a male staff member and emails and text messages sent to the staffer.
Prime Minister Julia Gillard described Mr Scott as one of "the parliament's gentlemen".
