Speaker Gerry Brownlee Takes Action Against Misconduct in Parliament

Parliament’s Speaker, Gerry Brownlee, is taking significant steps to address misconduct among Members of Parliament (MPs) following recent incidents in the House. Today, Brownlee will meet with MPs across the political spectrum to discuss a range of behavioural standards intended to enhance decorum within New Zealand’s Parliament.

The move comes after Oriini Kaipara, the newest MP from Te Pāti Māori, exceeded her allotted time during her maiden speech on March 14, 2024, and participated in a haka that originated from the public gallery. Such actions have prompted Brownlee to call for a meeting of the Parliament’s Business Committee. The agenda will cover issues including dress standards, attendance records, leave policies, and the allocation of questions during sessions.

In a statement to the press, Brownlee highlighted that Kaipara’s behaviour was a tipping point, indicating a need for stricter enforcement of rules. “The actions displayed last week cannot be tolerated if we want to maintain the integrity of this House,” Brownlee said.

While the Speaker did not single out any specific MPs for further criticism, he emphasized the importance of setting a standard that all members should adhere to. The discussions at the Business Committee are expected to set a clear framework for acceptable conduct and procedures moving forward.

This initiative reflects the Speaker’s commitment to fostering an environment where parliamentary procedures are respected, and the dignity of the institution is upheld. As these discussions unfold, the focus will likely shift to how these proposed guidelines can be effectively implemented and monitored.

The Parliament’s reputation hinges on the professional conduct of its members. Brownlee’s actions aim to reinforce the principles of respect and accountability within the House, ensuring that all MPs contribute to a positive legislative atmosphere.

With increasing public scrutiny on parliamentary behaviour, the outcomes of these discussions will be closely watched by both the media and the public. The decisions made in the coming days could have lasting implications for how MPs conduct themselves in the future, as Parliament strives to maintain its role as a respected institution in New Zealand’s democracy.