Bruce Scott elected Deputy Speaker

9 Oct 2012, 10:33 pm   -   Source: AAP

MPs are voting to elect the deputy speaker of the federal parliament following the elevation of former deputy Anna Burke to the top job.

A vote is being held to elect the deputy speaker of the federal parliament.

Labor has nominated South Australian MP Steve Georganas for the role, following the elevation of former deputy Anna Burke to the top job late on Tuesday.

But Liberal frontbencher Christopher Pyne has put forward Bruce Scott for the position.

"Without detracting from the member for Hindmarsh, who's been here for eight years, the member for Maranoa has been here since 1990," manager of opposition business Christopher Pyne told parliament.

"There is no better qualified member of parliament to serve as the deputy speaker."

Independent MP Tony Windsor seconded the nomination of Mr Scott.

The vote for the deputy speaker position went to a secret ballot.

Bruce Scott was elected to the deputy position.

Mr Scott got 74 votes to Mr Georganas' 70.

Prime Minister Julia Gillard said she didn't always agree with Mr Scott but noted he was a true gentleman of the parliament.

"I'm sure that he will serve in this role with distinction," she said.

"We welcome his election ... and we look forward to working with him."

Opposition Leader Tony Abbott said winning the ballot was testimony to Mr Scott's qualities as a man and as a member of parliament.

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