Leading contenders to be the next Commons Speaker

Sir Alan Haselhurst (Con), the most senior deputy speaker. Would have been a favourite had Michael Martin served full term but has become embroiled in the expenses scandal. Odds 4-1 Photograph: PA

Sir George Young (Con), the chairman of the Commons standards and privileges committee. Generally seen as a liberal Tory, he is still highly regarded in the Commons. 8-1 Photograph: PA

Frank Field (Lab). A former minister for welfare reform. He has a reputation for being independent minded but does not have a huge following in parliament. 4-1 Photograph: David Rose/Rex Features

Sir Menzies Campbell. The former Liberal Democrat leader is playing his cards close to his chest but he is well liked and has a good legal mind when it comes to handling complex issues. 10-1 Photograph: Martin Argles

John Bercow (Con). Maverick Tory married to a Labour activist. Relatively young, he has won support of the independently minded Labour MP Paul Flynn. 8-1 Photograph: Dominic Lipinski/PA

Vincent Cable (Lib Dem). He would be a popular choice among the public to restore faith in the Commons. Says he is not interested in the Speaker's job but may be persuaded. 10-1 Photograph: David Levene

Richard Taylor. The independent MP for Wyre Forest and a onetime Kidderminster Hospital rheumatologist. Could be seen as a sleaze-free candidate – a sort of less flamboyant Martin Bell. 10-1 Photograph: Sean Smith

Sylvia Heal (Lab). One of the more likely female candidates, currently a junior deputy speaker. She is considered a safe pair of hands. 14-1 Photograph: Labour Party/PA