Betty Boothroyd bows out tomorrow after eight years as Speaker of the House of Commons, but the process by which she will be replaced is still unknown.
It was unclear today how the selection would be conducted, with critics predicting chaotic scenes in the House if traditional procedures are adhered to.
Under the existing rules, Sir Edward Heath, the longest-serving MP, who is known as the Father of the House, would choose an MP to nominate a candidate in a motion and a short debate would follow.
Then another MP would be called to make an amendment to the original motion, proposing a rival candidate. There would be more debate before the amendment is put to the Commons for decision.
If the amendment fails to