Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives Harry Jenkins has resigned, announcing his desire to pursue parliamentary debate and policymaking.

 

Mr Jenkins told the parliament that his role as Speaker prevented him from pursuing his desire to be more involved in parliament debate.

 

"To further avoid controversial party political matters I have divorced myself from involvement with the Federal Parliamentary Labor Party. In this era of minority government I have progressively become frustrated at this stricture. My desire is to be able to participate in policy and parliamentary debate, and this would be incompatible with continuing in the role of Speaker," Mr Jenkins said.

 

While Mr Jenkins’ resignation took parliament by surprise, both Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Opposition Leader Tony Abbott were quick to praise the Speaker.

 

Mr Jenkin's deputy, Liberal MP Peter Slipper, has officially been named his replacement.