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Tony Smith to stand for Speaker’s job

Victorian MP Tony Smith confirms he will seek the role of Speaker of the House of Representatives.

Backed as one of the favourites for the position, Mr Smith write to his colleagues seeking their support in a party room ballot next Monday.

Former Speaker Bronwyn Bishop resigned on Sunday buckling under pressure generated from a travel expenses scandal, including spending more than $5000 on a chartered helicopter flight from Melbourne to Geelong to attend a Liberal Party function.

• Bron Voyage: Bishop career ‘at an end’
• Political expert nominates late MP for Speaker
• Bishop resignation ‘unprompted’

Mr Smith wrote in an email: “The role of Speaker is critical to the smooth functioning and dignity of the Parliament”, Sky News reported.

“I believe I have the experience, temperament, and strength necessary to do the job.

“Over the last three days I have had the opportunity to discuss the matter with House of Representatives colleagues.

“I am appreciative of the many offers of support for me to put my name forward as a candidate.’’

Mr Smith said he respected other colleagues who would put themselves forward for the position, and believed the nomination process would be positive.

Representing a seat in Melbourne, Mr Smith has been backed by Trade Minister Andrew Robb.

The former staffer for Peter Costello appeared to be widely respected by both the right and left of the party, and is now emerging as a frontrunner for the Speaker’s job.

The Coalition party room will meet in Canberra on Monday to decide on who will be put forward for Speaker to replace Mrs Bishop.

The House of Representatives will then elect a Speaker as its first order of business.

Betting agencies have four Liberal MPs at short odds: Mr Smith, Russell Broadbent, Andrew Southcott and Philip Ruddock.

Queensland MPs Teresa Gambaro and Jane Prentice have also been named as potential candidates, but Ms Gambaro confirmed she will not be running.

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