Speaker Gerry Brownlee Takes Action Against Misconduct in Parliament

Parliament’s Speaker, Gerry Brownlee, is addressing concerns over misconduct within the New Zealand Parliament by consulting with Members of Parliament (MPs) today. This initiative follows incidents during recent parliamentary sessions that have drawn criticism and prompted calls for stricter regulations regarding conduct.

In a notable incident last Thursday, new MP Oriini Kaipara of Te Pāti Māori exceeded her allotted time during her maiden speech. Additionally, she participated in a haka that originated from the public gallery, which has been seen as a breach of parliamentary decorum. Brownlee has stated that these events represent a tipping point, leading him to take decisive action.

To address these issues, Brownlee plans to convene the Parliament’s Business Committee. The agenda will focus on several key areas, including dress standards, attendance records, leave policies, and the allocation of questions. These discussions aim to establish clearer expectations for behaviour and ensure that all MPs adhere to the standards required within the parliamentary setting.

Barry Soper, a senior political correspondent for Newstalk ZB, noted that Kaipara’s actions were the catalyst for Brownlee’s move to tighten regulations. Soper emphasized that the recent rule violations have raised significant concerns among parliamentary leaders about maintaining order and respect in the House.

As Parliament grapples with these challenges, Brownlee’s leadership will be crucial in navigating the discussions that lie ahead. The outcome of these deliberations could lead to changes that shape the future conduct of MPs in New Zealand’s political landscape.

Brownlee’s commitment to addressing these issues reflects a broader desire to uphold the integrity of Parliament and ensure a respectful environment for all members. The decisions made in the coming weeks will likely set the tone for how parliamentary behaviour is managed moving forward.