Both Conservative MPs in the running to be Speaker of the House for the upcoming parliamentary session abruptly withdrew from the race ahead of Monday morning’s vote. Members returned to the House May 26 for the reconvening of Parliament for the first time since former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau prorogued on January 6. The first order of business was selecting a House Speaker, a role that requires facilitating House proceedings and maintaining order. .Conservative MPs Chris d’Entremont, who formerly served as deputy Speaker, and John Nater had thrown their names in the hat for the Speaker role, but suddenly dropped out, reported the Canadian Press. No details have been given as to why.Liberal candidates include former House Speaker and MP Greg Fergus, former deputy government House leader and MP Sherry Romanado and MPs Sean Casey, Rob Oliphant, Francis Scarpaleggia, and Alexandra Mendès.Green Party Leader Elizabeth May withdrew her bid on Sunday, and endorsed Fergus..Once MPs have voted in a Speaker, there will be a Cabinet meeting, chaired by Prime Minister Mark Carney.Carney will then meet King Charles and Queen Camilla, who are on their way to Ottawa and will land early afternoon local time. They will hold a reception, meet with members of community organizations and Their Majesties will plant a ceremonial tree on the grounds of Rideau Hall.The prime minister will then have an audience with the king at Rideau Hall. On Tuesday, Charles will deliver the Throne Speech.
