“Two options presented themselves yesterday,” Mr Oakeshott said.

“One was for the parliament to remove the Speaker under the Constitution, an unprecedented move in the 112-year history of the parliament, which was put to the House without any notice whatsoever. The other option was for Mr Slipper to take responsibility for his own actions.

“His text messages were obscene, offensive, and indefensible. As someone who believes that we are each responsible for our own behaviour, I believe Mr Slipper made the right decision.”

Mr Oakeshott confirmed media reports today that he and New England MP Tony Windsor had a lengthy conversation with Mr Slipper in the Speaker’s office yesterday.

“This meeting took place during debate on the Opposition’s motion, and the former Speaker indicated, before debate on the Opposition’s motion concluded, that he would offer his resignation to the House later that evening. In all the circumstances, dignity was better served by the Speaker ‘falling on his sword’ than being ‘put to the sword’.

“That’s why I reject the misinformed comments of the National Party candidate for Lyne, David Gillespie.

“Mr Gillespie is as unfamiliar with yesterday’s events as he is with his own party’s policies. We are still waiting for his explanation of his own expensive climate change policy, and on why he supports Sydney private schools over local schools on funding.”

Mr Oakeshott said he extended his congratulations to Anna Burke on her election to the Speaker’s position and to The National’s MP Bruce Scott on his appointment as Deputy Speaker.