Retirement of the Clerk of the House

Pays tribute to Sir John Benger, acknowledging his contributions during a period of extraordinary challenges including the pandemic and Brexit. Highlights improvements in welfare facilities and support for staff under his leadership.

Compliments Sir John's conduct and reputation, noting his ability to maintain impartiality and fairness during contentious times. Recounts historical precedents and praises the Clerk’s department for its invaluable support.

Paid tribute to Sir John Benger for his nearly four decades of service in various capacities, including his role as Clerk of the House during the covid-19 outbreak. Mentioned his establishment of the Independent Expert Panel and his work on the restoration and renewal of the parliamentary estate. Described him as a deeply intelligent man with a passionate love of football.

Echoed tributes to Sir John Benger, highlighting his professionalism and courtesy during challenging times such as the 2017-19 Parliament. Noted his invaluable advice as Chief Whip for SNP.

Emphasised Sir John Benger's fairness and professionalism in providing advice to Members regardless of their position or seniority. Highlighted the complexity he handled during the 2017-19 Parliament, including procedural matters like Humble Addresses. Praised his role in modernizing practices such as the introduction of the ICGS and removing wigs.

Acknowledged Sir John Benger's enduring wisdom and progressive stance, protecting values while advocating for modernisation. Praised his leadership of the Clerks team and his pleasant demeanour despite being highly knowledgeable.

Mr Cash associates himself with tributes paid to Sir John Benger and mentions the 'paralysis Parliament' between 2017-2019. He also notes that discussing sovereignty was not allowed in 1986, but by 2020 it had become possible without adverse comments. Mr Cash pays tribute to Sir John's contribution during the pandemic and for his role in Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral arrangements.

Ms Chamberlain associates herself with tributes paid to Sir John Benger. She notes her first engagement with Sir John as a new MP in 2019 and how he assisted during the pandemic when MPs were transitioning to virtual environments. Ms Chamberlain appreciates his cultural changes made within Parliament and expresses gratitude for his sympathetic understanding.

Mr Walker reflects on Sir John Benger's departure, noting that he was kind, thoughtful, and reflective. He appreciates Sir John's wisdom and the way in which he captured the room when speaking.

Ms Saville-Roberts pays tribute to Sir John Benger for his work during challenging times such as Brexit and the pandemic. She specifically mentions his role in implementing the Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme, emphasising its cultural importance.

Ms Bradley speaks on behalf of the House of Commons Procedure Committee to pay tribute to Sir John Benger for his role in guiding the committee during the early stages of the pandemic. She highlights how he managed major events such as Brexit, the pandemic, and Queen Elizabeth II’s passing with aplomb.

I am proud to speak about Sir John Benger, a Stockport native who has dedicated nearly 37 years of service to the House and served as its Clerk. He is recognised for his intelligence, politeness, and assistance in navigating complex roles within Parliament. Mishra notes that Sir John's journey from Stockport Grammar School on scholarship to Cambridge illustrates his meritocratic achievement. He expresses regret over a cancelled visit but remains optimistic about future engagements. The MP emphasises the importance of individuals like Sir John who are crucial to parliamentary operations.

On behalf of the DUP, Jim Shannon offers sincere thanks to Sir John Benger for his service and wishes him well in his new role at Cambridge. He acknowledges Sir John's leadership during challenging times such as Brexit and the Queen’s funeral, praising his ability to maintain order during emotionally charged moments. Shannon highlights Sir John’s effective handling of pandemic-related issues, ensuring both safety and procedural integrity.

The Speaker conveys the House's gratitude for Sir John Benger's contributions, including his wisdom during testing times like Brexit and the pandemic. He praises Sir John’s leadership and professionalism, noting that the Clerk’s courteous advice has been invaluable to Members.

Roger Gale expresses personal appreciation for Sir John Benger's work and friendship, highlighting his courtesy and wisdom. He commends Sir John for the positive impact he had on parliamentary operations throughout his tenure.