The new Commons Speaker has said he would allow Big Ben to ring out to mark Brexit, as he pledged not to let his political views cloud his decisions.

Sir Lindsay Hoyle said the great bell in Parliament's Elizabeth Tower should be rung on Jan 31 if MPs "wish to do that", stating that the UK's formal departure from the EU on Jan 31 will be a "significant moment".

His comments mark a significant break from the approach of his predecessor, who, since stepping down has described Brexit as Britain's biggest mistake since the Second World War. Last year a committee chaired by Mr Bercow blocked a bid for Big Ben to chime on the UK's originally intended exit date of March 29 2019.

More than 50 MPs have now signed an early day motion calling for Big Ben to ring out at 11pm on Jan 31. The bell is housed in Parliament's Elizabeth Tower, which is currently being refurbished.

Sir Lindsay, who was formally installed as Speaker last week, told The Sunday Telegraph: "If the House wants to do it the House will do it. I’m not sure whether it will be at that stage in the building work that it can ring … but if that’s what the House wants I’m not going to stand in the way because of my view. My view doesn’t matter.