M.P.’s Remark For Scrutiny (Press, 13 March 1986)
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Summary: M.P.’s Remark For Scrutiny (Press, 13 March 1986)
A remark made by Opposition MP John Banks during a debate on the Homosexual Law Reform Bill is set to be reviewed by Parliament's Privileges Committee. The incident occurred during a heated discussion on the bill's committee stages, where Banks, an ardent opponent of the legislation, accused fellow MP Helen Clark, the Government member for Mount Albert, of being "in collusion with the sponsor of the bill." The sponsor in question is Fran Wilde, a Labour MP representing Wellington Central, and Banks directed his comment at the Chairman of Committees, John Terris, who was presiding over the debate at the time. Following the remark, Banks faced immediate consequences and was suspended from Parliamentary proceedings for a period of 24 hours. The Speaker of the House, Dr Wall, confirmed that Clark had raised the issue, leading to a formal assertion that Banks' comment constituted a matter of privilege. Dr Wall indicated that such remarks could potentially impact the character and conduct of the presiding officer, which necessitated a deeper investigation. As a result, this matter will be submitted to the Privileges Committee, alongside the relevant circumstances surrounding the incident.
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