The speaker of the House of Commons told students how he believes Brexit is a “mistake” yesterday (September 19).

John Bercow answered questions from Year 12 students at Enfield Grammar School during a morning assembly alongside ex-Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein, and was instantly asked what he thinks of the EU referendum result.

Mr Bercow, who ironically given his job title had lost his voice “cheering on the British team at the Davis Cup in Glasgow”, answered: "If I'm honest, I think it is a mistake", which immediately received applause from the audience of 16- and 17-year-olds.

He went on to say: “The EU is a very big trade block of which we are still, for the moment, a member. It makes sense to still be part of it.

“We are in a world of power blocks, and it seems to me that remaining part of a power block is a good thing. We are not in the days of empire; we do not rule the waves.

“That said, I am a democrat. Do I think we should have had a referendum? No, but reluctantly I conclude Brexit will happen, and the government must salvage what it can.”

Mr Bercow was also asked if he will “miss” former Prime Minister David Cameron, who last week announced he is to step down as MP for Witney.

He said: “I shall bear his departure. I wish him well, I always tried to treat him with respect because he was Prime Minister, and because he is a sharp, bright guy.

“Are we friends? No, we succeeded in irritating the hell out of each other. As PM he was like the centre-forward, but as I told him, the centre forward cannot also be the referee.”