Correct option is B
Thomas Hungerford was the first Speaker of the British House of Commons, elected in
1376 during the reign of King Edward III. The position of the Speaker was established to serve as an intermediary between the Crown and the House of Commons, representing the interests of the House while maintaining its independence.
Key Details:
1. Hungerford was elected Speaker during the “Good Parliament” of 1376.
2. The role of the Speaker initially involved acting as a spokesperson for the House of Commons to the monarch.
3. Over time, the position evolved to include presiding over debates and maintaining order within the House.
4. The Speaker is now a non-partisan figure and plays a crucial role in ensuring the fairness of parliamentary proceedings.
5. Hungerford’s tenure marked the beginning of a significant constitutional tradition in British parliamentary democracy.
Information Booster
· The Speaker's role has transformed significantly from being a representative of the Crown to a protector of the rights and privileges of the Commons.
· Modern Speakers must resign from their political parties to maintain neutrality.
· The Speaker of the House of Commons is elected by MPs through a formal voting process.
· The Speaker’s chair symbolizes authority and impartiality in the House of Commons.