Denis Healey and Geoffrey Howe were both "intellectually and politically formidable" parliamentary giants who will be "greatly missed", John Bercow has said.

The Speaker led Commons tributes at the start of Monday's business.

The deaths of former Labour chancellor Lord Healey and former Tory chancellor Lord Howe were announced earlier this month while MPs were away from Parliament during the conference recess.

Mr Bercow said: "By any yardstick and I think, without any doubt, both of those individuals were quite outstanding parliamentarians, people who served their constituents, their parties and their country with unwavering loyalty and distinction.

"Intellectually and politically formidable, they will be greatly missed.

"They had impressive hinterlands both of them and I hope the House will join me in extending condolences to both of their families and friends."