Ruddock puts hand up for Speaker job

Philip Ruddock says he is available for the Speaker's position if his colleagues approve it.

Philip Ruddock says he is available for the Speakers's position if his colleagues approve it. (AAP)

Veteran Liberal MP Philip Ruddock has put his hand up for the vacant Speaker's post in federal parliament.

Mr Ruddock has been touted as a possible contender for the coveted job.

"Yes, I would be available if my parliamentary colleagues sought it," he told AAP in a statement on Monday.

Cabinet minister Scott Morrison said Mr Ruddock was well respected but there were plenty of other good candidates.

It was important for the coalition party room to go through the "grassroots" process and pick a new Speaker.

"And that Speaker will set the tone for balance of this parliament, and hopefully beyond," Mr Morrison told 2GB radio on Monday.