MPs are to examine changing the system of electing the speaker in the wake of the election of Michael Martin to the Commons chair.

The inquiry, to be conducted by the House of Commons procedures committee, will examine whether a clearer system, such as a straightforward ballot, could be used to elect the speaker in the future.

MPs from all sides of the House were critical of the current rules after it took nearly eight hours to elect Michael Martin using an arcane and complex system.

The committee will take evidence from a MPs including Tony Benn and Sir George Young - both of whom have let it be known that the current system is in need of reform. Tam Dalyell, who as the next father of the House will under current rules preside over a future election, will also give evidence to the committee.

Martin has not made any official comment on reform of the system of election, saying it is a matter for others to determine, although sources suggest he too would favour a more clear-cut system.