Thursday, 16 November 2023

Rulings from the Chair

Member and visitor conduct

The SPEAKER (09:33): The Deputy Speaker referred a point of order to me after adjournment last night. The Manager of Opposition Business took a point of order drawing the Chair’s attention to the fact that the Council had adjourned early due to disorder in the galleries. The Manager of Opposition Business suggested that an Assembly member may have been involved in that disorder. Respecting the independence of the houses, this house should leave it to the Council to determine whether any of its rights have been infringed. If there are any findings of relevance to the Assembly, the Council will communicate that to the Assembly in the usual way, and that is by message. Out of respect for the Council’s processes, I rule the Manager of Opposition Business’s point of order out of order.

However, I wish to make some comments about conduct in the galleries, as this house has twice been suspended this week due to disorder in the galleries. That members with different perspectives on issues representing a wide array of opinions held by constituents can meet together safely to debate policies and create laws is a right that all members of this house cherish. Any action that threatens our ability to meet as a house on behalf of our constituents can be a contempt of Parliament. I am alarmed by the behaviour in the galleries this week and will discuss possible ways forward with the Serjeant-at-Arms, our security team and the President. In the meantime I regretfully advise that the public galleries are closed to all but passholders and their guests for the rest of this week and the final sitting week.

James Newbury: On a point of order, Speaker, may I put on record the coalition’s deep concern about the matter. The coalition is willing to work with the government. It is clear that a member has behaved after being suspended in a way that should concern us all, and I do want to put on record our willingness to work with the government because my view is that clearly the penalty has not worked.

The SPEAKER: That is a matter for the house.