Sir Keith Shows A Leg (Press, 16 May 1980)

On 16 May 1980, the opening of Parliament in New Zealand was briefly disrupted by an incident involving the Governor-General, Sir Keith Holyoake. As he prepared to open Parliament for the final time, he proudly lifted his trouser leg to reveal where he would wear his Garter after being installed as Knight of the Garter by the Queen at Windsor Castle the following month. This light-hearted moment occurred in response to a bystander's request, and he maintained a jovial attitude throughout the proceedings, even responding to another group's request for a smile. Despite the celebratory atmosphere, the event was marked by the presence of protesters outside Parliament, advocating for the repeal of laws concerning abortion and lesbian rights. Their chants and interjections were a persistent background feature during the formal proceedings. Upon arrival, the Governor-General was welcomed with a naval guard of honour and the Royal New Zealand Army Band, which played the National Anthem. After a 21-gun salute, Sir Keith inspected the guard and proceeded into Parliament with Lady Holyoake and official attendants. Inside the House of Representatives, Cabinet Ministers awaited the summons of Black Rod to enter the Legislative Chamber for the Speech from the Throne. Following this speech, which was addressed to members of Parliament, dignitaries, and invited guests, representatives returned to the House to table petitions and notices of motion. Among the significant petitions presented was one from 3,802 residents and fishermen from Waihi Beach, calling for a ban on commercial trawling in their area. Various notices of motion were tabled by members, including calls for Prime Minister Rob Muldoon to disclose his proposals regarding inflation control, a condemnation of national strike actions proposed by the Federation of Labour and the Labour Party's support for such actions, and a statement on the Labour Party's relationship with the Socialist Unity Party. Other motions included demands for the resignation of Minister of Education Mr Wellington due to alleged failures in engaging with educational groups, censure regarding land sales to foreign investors, approval of land being returned to New Zealand ownership, and a request for a moratorium on establishing FM radio in New Zealand due to financial concerns. The opening day thus encapsulated both a ceremonial send-off for Sir Keith Holyoake and the contentious political climate surrounding key social issues of the time, demonstrating a vibrant democracy engaged in dialogue and debate.

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