Not a single MP will step forward to criticise Sir Lindsay Hoyle despite the Mails revelations

Several MPs have refused to publicly criticise Sir Lindsay Hoyle despite the Mails revelations in recent days.

This newspaper contacted more than 20 members, all of whom refused to go on the record.

Each stated the Commons Speaker wields huge unchecked power, as he can decide whether MPs questions, legislation amendments and private Bills are heard.

One MP said: The problem is I think MPs are going to have trouble if they start calling for anything [like an investigation into Hoyle], because theyll never get called again to speak. 

Another added: Im very edgy about saying anything because Ive got a lot of concerns my constituents want raising and if you p*** off the Speaker you are probably not going to get called to raise them.

There is no mechanism for triggering an investigation into the Speakers expenses, probably because of how the role has evolved over the years.

While he could be probed by the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority watchdog over his expenses incurred as an MP, there is no equivalent for those incurred in his capacity as the Speaker.

One MP said this was partly why they would fear becoming a sitting duck if they complained publicly. The Speaker presides over Commons debates, determining which members may speak and which legislation amendments will be considered.

MPs have refused to publicly criticise Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle (pictured) despite recent revelations, citing his huge unchecked power

Many are reluctant to call out the Speaker for fear they will not be called to speak

Sir Lindsay Hoyle during the Memorial Gates Commonwealth Day Ceremony. There is no mechanism for launching an investigation into the Speakers expenses

They are also responsible for maintaining order during debates and may punish those who break House rules. The Speaker is elected by a secret ballot of MPs at the start of a Parliament after a general election – or after their predecessors death or retirement.

But there is no formal way for MPs to oust a Speaker. Erskine May, the bible of parliamentary procedure, says the Speaker continues in that office during the whole Parliament. MPs can, however, criticise the Speaker by putting down a motion against them.

The Government can then provide time for it to be debated. But, unless it could lead to the Speaker resigning, one would likely not be tabled.

The Speakers spokesman said: Costs incurred by the Speaker in his role as Speaker of the House of Commons are paid by the House of Commons Administration.

Complaints about the Speaker – in his role as Speaker – are not covered by the remit of the Commissioner for Standards.