John Armstrong reports on the farce that was question time yesterday. Dover Samuals, Associate Minister for Economic Development, criticised Chris Carter's decision to veto the Whangamata Marina in the Independent newspapers. Naturally the Opposition decided to question him about these statements.
However, Dover Samuals then claimed in the House that those comments were made in his capacity as a former Far North District Councillor, not as a member of the Government. The Speaker upheld that, ruling that the questions were out of order.
Nick Smith was subsequently thrown out for declaring it a farce.
While in this case the questions were purely designed to embarass the government, it raises important constitutional questions. Should ministers be able to dodge questions in Parliament because they decide to designate themselves as speaking in a different role? Should Helen Clark avoid any questions about any of her speeches or comments if she claims to have been speaking in her role as a former university lecturer?
I think not.Advanced XP Tweak 2.5 serial
However, Dover Samuals then claimed in the House that those comments were made in his capacity as a former Far North District Councillor, not as a member of the Government. The Speaker upheld that, ruling that the questions were out of order.
Nick Smith was subsequently thrown out for declaring it a farce.
While in this case the questions were purely designed to embarass the government, it raises important constitutional questions. Should ministers be able to dodge questions in Parliament because they decide to designate themselves as speaking in a different role? Should Helen Clark avoid any questions about any of her speeches or comments if she claims to have been speaking in her role as a former university lecturer?
I think not.Advanced XP Tweak 2.5 serial
Comments
You should read No Right Turn. :) It will provide some interesting points of agreement with the far left wing for you.Advanced XP Tweak 2.5 serial