Bercow teaches crooks art of public speaking

FORMER Commons Speaker John Bercow has found a new role helping criminals to develop the gift of the gab.

- Jonathan Walker

He is aiming to assist prisoners in rebuilding their lives by giving a course on public speaking in Pentonville jail.

But last night critics said the move could be more about his own rehabilitation rather than that of the inmates.

They believe the initiative is clearly aimed at currying favour with the Labour government, in a bid to make a return to public life.

One source went further, claiming that learning to imitate Mr Bercow's plummy accent may help old lags argue their case in court, but added: "I don't know if victims of crime will feel much better if their mugger has a posh voice."