House Speaker Wants Strict Adherence to Parliamentary Rules Amid MP Suspension
By Aabigayle McIntosh
Speaker of the House, Sir Gerald Watt KC, has underscored the importance of adhering to Parliamentary procedures and the applicable Standing Orders, making it clear that he will rigorously uphold them without leniency.
The Speaker delivered this admonition on Monday while providing an update to the Lower House concerning the case involving St. Peter MP Asot Michael, who was expelled from the House of Assembly due to his conduct.
In response to his suspension, Michael has filed a petition with the court seeking to have it overturned. However, the court dismissed his claim, highlighting its lack of authority over the internal proceedings of the legislative body, which operate autonomously and on par with the executive and judicial branches of government.
“I want to make it clear; I have no responsibility and I don’t care what members of the House do outside of this Parliament their behavior is for the public and constituents to judge.
“When it comes to behavior in this House, leave the cussing outside keep the vagabondism out there if it is brought in here I will deal with anybody on any side of the House. Just thought I would make that clear,” Sir Gerald said.
He emphasized that this case underscores the robust nature of the Standing Orders that regulate the House, emphasizing that they are distinct from and unrelated to the Constitution of Antigua and Barbuda.
This story was first published by Antigua News on September 21, 2023: antigua.news/2023/09/21/house-speaker-wants-strict-adherence-to-parliamentary-rules-amid-mp-suspension. © 2023 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
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