Sir Geoffrey to warm Speaker’s chair

It has been the best worst kept political secret but history will now record that at 10.18am in parliament on Friday 18 February 2011, Prime Minister Hon Henry Puna nominated former PM Sir Geoffrey Henry KBE as Speaker. The nomination was seconded by the deputy prime Minister Hon Tom Marsters.
In nominating Sir Geoffrey, Puna went on to say he does not think the opposition will object as Sir Geoffrey was “most qualified to take the chair of Speaker.”
Sir Geoffrey is not a sitting MP however the Constitution allows the PM to nominate a person from outside the House.
Puna referred to media speculation about Sir Geoffrey’s remuneration package pointing out that it was not for government or parliament to decide on this but the Remuneration Tribunal.
A point to note is that it was this Tribunal which reduced the salary of the Speaker in 2004 from $65,000 to $35,000.
Puna expressed concern that under the current law only the PM can nominate the Speaker. This meant the democratic right of the opposition to make a nomination was denied.
The Clerk of the House then announced that Sir Geoffrey had informed him he had agreed to be the Speaker.
Sir Geoffrey then made a short speech. He thanked the PM for the honour and confidence expressed in him. He said he looked forward to working closely with government and the opposition towards restoring the high repute parliament enjoyed for many years. In that endeavour he said he looked forward to the co-operation of all MPs.
He then extended a warm greeting to the family and friends of the new MPs present for their swearing in.
Sir Geoffrey then adjourned the House while he made his way to the residence of the Queen’s representative to be sworn in. He was accompanied by the PM, Deputy PM, the Clerk of the House and Deputy Clerk.
On his return, the MPs will take the oath of office.

By Charles Pitt

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