Bob Doris, SNP MSP for Glasgow today called for a fresh start for the people of Glasgow North East and for respect to be shown for the outgoing local MP and Speaker of the House of Commons, Michael Martin.

Mr Doris believes the Speaker may have had a controversial role in the Westminster expenses fiasco but that a near life time of public service cannot just be dismissed. As list MSP Mr Doris holds regular surgeries across the area and knows well the problems faced by constituents.
   
Mr Doris said: "I may not agree with Michael Martin's poor handling of the expenses scandal. However Mr Martin has given 40 years of public service and that is something we should all acknowledge and pay tribute to.

"It is now time for the area to move on and get a fresh start. Michael Martin may be the scapegoat for fear stricken MPs who are looking to blame someone else for their own excesses but his departure will give the people of north east Glasgow a fresh start.
   
"Of course a new face at the speakers chair will not cure the rot at Westminster. If Gordon Brown has an ounce of decency he will call a general election now and allow the whole of Scotland its say. Just because the Prime Minister believes he will lose to the SNP in Scotland and to other British parties in England, that should not enter the equation."