A LANCASHIRE MP has been installed as the favourite to become the House of Commons Speaker - while another has provoked the ire of the outgoing incumbent.

Chorley's Sir Lindsay Hoyle has been named the bookmakers pick to succeed John Bercow in the Parliamentary role.

And he has won the endorsement of a former Deputy Speaker, Ribble Valley MP Nigel Evans.

But in stormy scenes in the Commons last night, Pendle MP Andrew Stephenson was at the centre of a spat with Mr Bercow as Parliament was prorogued for five weeks.

Opposition and government MPs clashed as part of the formal ceremony to suspend Commons business got underway.

Labour MPs held signs bearing the word 'silenced', amid shouts of 'shame on you' as the procession left for the House of Lords.

Before walking to the Lords, Mr Bercow said of the protest: "I recognise that our presence is desired by our Majesty the Queen's Commissioners.

"They are doing what they believe to be right and I recognise my role in this matter."

Mr Bercow added: "I'm perfectly happy to play my part, but I do want to make the point that this is not a standard or normal prorogation."

The Speaker continued: "It's one of the longest for decades and it represents an act of executive fiat."

Mr Stephenson is then reported to have shouted at the Speaker before leaving the chamber.

In response, Mr Bercow said: "I don't care if you don't like it. I require no response from you young man. I require no response from you. Get out man, you will not be missed."

Meanwhile several candiates have confirmed they wish to be considered for the role of Speaker, with Chorley's Mr Hoyle potentially joined in the running by fellow Labour MP Chris Bryant and veteran Tory Sir Edward Leigh.

Mr Hoyle, himself a Deputy Speaker, also paid tribute to Mr Bercow's "dedication and service", adding: "He is a champion of LGBT and BAME rights and we now have a more diverse and representative House than ever before."

Last night his candidacy was backed by Ribble Valley MP Nigel Evans, who was a Deputy Speaker until 2013.

He wrote on Twitter: "I understand Lindsay Hoyle allowing his name to go forward when election of new Speaker begins- backing him 100%...he has been a great first Deputy Speaker over nine years- huge experience which is much needed at this time."