TheParliamentarian

Journal of the of the Commonwealth 2018 | Volume 99 | Issue Two | Price £14

Towards a Common Future: CHOGM 2018 Outcomes PAGES 106-117

PLUS Hosting the The Malala Debate: CPA’s Benchmarks 9th Commonwealth Commonwealth Games A View from Pakistan for Democratic Youth Gold Coast 2018 inspires young leaders

PAGE 118 PAGE 120 PAGE 128 PAGE 136 STATEMENT OF PURPOSE CPA Parliamentary Fundamentals The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) exists to connect, develop, promote and support Parliamentarians and their staff to identify benchmarks of Flagship Programme 2018 good governance, and implement the enduring values of the Commonwealth. NEWLY ELECTED OR RETURNING COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARIAN? Calendar of Forthcoming Events Confirmed as of 30 May 2018 LOOKING TO STRENGTHEN YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF PARLIAMENTARY 2018 PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE? June

If so, the CPA invites you to enrol on its new Parliamentary 8 to 11 June 2018 CPA Expert Committee on the Status of the Association, London, UK Fundamentals Programme, with one additional course specifically 15 to 23 June 2018 43rd CPA Regional Conference of the , Americas and Atlantic Region, developed for CPA Small Branches. Programmes are accredited with Georgetown, McGill University, Canada (Small Branches programme) and the 18 to 20 June 2018 CPA Recommended Benchmarks for Democratic Legislatures Review Meeting, University of Witwatersrand, South Africa (General programme). Wilton Park, UK July Programme includes: Online modules | Residential components | w/c 9 July 2018 CPA Fundamentals Programme for Small Branches (Online), McGill University, Canada Teaching by world-class academics and parliamentary experts. 22 to 27 July 2018 56th CPA Canadian Regional Conference, Ottawa, Canada

November

w/c 5 November 2018 CPA Fundamentals Programme (Online), University of Witwatersrand, South Africa

The publication of a Calendar of Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) events is a service intended to foster the exchange of events and activities between Regions and Branches and the encouragement of new ideas and participation. Further information may be obtained from the Branches concerned or the CPA Headquarters Secretariat. PLACES AVAILABLE NOW FOR 2018 Branch Secretaries are requested to send notice of the main CPA events and conferences to [email protected] in advance of the publication deadline to ensure the Calendar is accurate.

To find out more about the CPA Flagship Fundamentals Further information can also be found at www.cpahq.org or by emailing [email protected]. Programme on Parliamentary Practice and Procedure for 2018 visit www.cpahq.org/cpahq/cpafundamentals or email [email protected]

Updated May 2018 CONTENTS: THE PARLIAMENTARIAN CONTENTS 2018: ISSUE TWO

PAGE 94 PAGE 142 PAGE 153

PAGE 110

The Parliamentarian: VIEWS & NEWS & CHOGM 2018 FEATURE PARLIAMENTARY Journal of the Parliaments Annual subscription of the Commonwealth COMMENT PHOTOS NEWS ARTICLES REPORTS (four issues) Volume 99 UK: £44 inc. postage. 2018: Issue Two Editor’s Note CPA Photo Gallery ‘Towards a Common Hosting the Celebrating a decade Parliamentary Report Worldwide: £46 surface post Page 84 Pages 92-93 The Parliamentarian Future’: Commonwealth Commonwealth Games of dedication for Featuring parliamentary £52 airmail ISSN 0031-2282 Heads of Government Gold Coast 2018 parliamentary and legislative reports from The Queensland Government View from the CPA Commonwealth Day Meeting (CHOGM) 2018 excellence in Pakistan Canada, British Columbia, Price per issue Minister’s View A report on the ten year Issued and published by the Chairperson 2018 Reports , Sri Lanka, UK: £14 Reports from Commonwealth The opening ceremony Page 118 anniversary of the Pakistan International Secretariat of the Women and Politics Australia and India Worldwide: £15 surface post Day 2018 activity at the CPA Page 106 Institute for Parliamentary Commonwealth Parliamentary Page 86 Pages 143-159 £16 airmail Headquarters Secretariat in Services Association (CPA), CPA The Malala Debate London and in CPA Branches CPA at CHOGM 2018 A View from Pakistan Page 132 Headquarters Secretariat, View from the CPA Small Disclaimer across the network. Page 108 Page 120 Suite 700, Westminster Branches Chairperson Opinions and comments Pages 94-101 9th Commonwealth House, 7 Millbank, London The Separation of Powers and CPA Organisational expressed in articles and Commonwealth Women’s Forum Tackling Modern Slavery Youth Parliament SW1P 3JA, its importance to democracy Structure reviews published in The CPA News Page 110 in the Commonwealth inspires future young Page 88 CPA Executive Committee Parliamentarian are those of Reports from the CPA The Modern Slavery Project and leaders from across the Tel: +44 (0) 20 7799 1460 Members, Commonwealth the individual contributors and Executive Committee Mid- Commonwealth People’s Forum its ongoing work Commonwealth Fax: +44 (0) 20 7222 6073 View from the CPA Women Parliamentarians should not be attributed to the Year meeting in Mauritius, Page 112 Page 122 A report from the annual CPA Email: [email protected] Secretary-General (CWP) Steering Committee Secretariat of the Association. CPA New Zealand hosting CPA event for young people www.cpahq.org CHOGM 2018: Leveraging the Members and CPA Regional UK, Commonwealth service Commonwealth Youth Forum Power and Privilege on Page 136 Twitter @CPA_Secretariat Commonwealth Network Secretaries Contributors at Chelmsford , Page 113 Judicial Matters in the Facebook.com/CPAHQ Page 90 Page 160 Thank you to all contributors Post-Election Seminar and India Parliament Youth perspectives from for this issue. parliamentary staff training Commonwealth Scholarships to A report from the Kerala th Mr Akbar Khan 9 Commonwealth Youth in Kenya and the launch of boost study opportunities Legislative Assembly Secretary-General Parliament in Printed in: United Kingdom by the Commonwealth Media Page 114 Page 124 Participants from and Warners Midlands, PLC; Principles. the UK report on the experience Mr Jeffrey Hyland New Delhi, India by Jainco Art Pages 102-105 UK commits to democracy in Page 138 Editor, The Parliamentarian Self-assessment India; and Singapore by Times the Commonwealth ahead of [email protected] against the CPA’s Printers Private Limited. Commonwealth Women CHOGM 2018 Recommended Page 114 Main images: CPA Parliamentarians (CWP) Benchmarks for Headquarters Secretariat News Democratic Legislatures News from the Commonwealth CHOGM 2018: CPA Photo Gallery A report from the Parliament of editorial team/Shutterstock. Women Parliamentarians Page 115 Queensland Additional images: (CWP) regional activities Page 128 Commonwealth Secretariat. Pages 140-142 CHOGM 2018 Outcomes A View from India Page 116

82 | The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two | 83 EDITOR’S NOTE EDITOR’S NOTE

CHOGM 2018 OUTCOMES AND A NEW FOCUS ON THE COMMONWEALTH

The Editor’s Note

Following recent events, there is a renewed focus the 2018 Commonwealth People’s Forum in London, on the Commonwealth that we have not seen for ahead of CHOGM 2018. a number of years. The diverse community of the Shri Rajiv Pratap Rudy, MP (Lok Sabha, India) 53 Commonwealth nations has an opportunity to gives us a view of CHOGM 2018 from India’s increase its promotion of prosperity, democracy and perspective and write of the increasing importance peace and to tackle the worldwide challenges such as that his country is placing on the Commonwealth climate change that affect all of our global population. connection. The role of the Commonwealth’s wide network Just prior to the CHOGM 2018, the successful of organisations – from the Commonwealth XXI Commonwealth Games was held in the Parliamentary Association (CPA) and the Gold Coast in Australia. This issue hears from Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Jeffrey Hyland, Editor Queensland Government Minister for the Games, through to the Commonwealth Games The Parliamentarian, Hon. Kate Jones, MP (Queensland, Australia) and the Commonwealth Local Government Commonwealth about the impact of the event on the state and the Forum – is of huge importance in giving the Parliamentary Association country as a whole. Commonwealth a unique role in responding to the This issue of The Parliamentarian features an article world’s universal challenges. by Rt Hon. David Hanson, MP (United Kingdom) This issue of The Parliamentarian reports on a wide range of about the CPA UK Branch’s Modern Slavery Project in partnership with the recent events and activities that have reached our membership in all UK Government that is reaching many Commonwealth countries. Image: CHOGM 2018/Commonwealth Secretariat. nine regions of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. Hon. Meraj Hamayun Khan, MPA (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, This issue reports on the many events that took place prior and Pakistan) is the Chairperson of the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus earlier this year with over fifty Commonwealth youth delegates aged Above: Commonwealth leaders gather for the final day of the during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly and she writes about the between 18 to 29 years old. This issue features a full report from the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2018 and Commonwealth Summit in the United Kingdom with a inspiring Malala Yousafzai. event and two perspectives from youth participants from Jamaica and 2018 in April with Windsor Castle as a spectacular backdrop. wide range of activities involving Commonwealth Parliamentarians. This issue celebrates the ten-year anniversary of the Pakistan the United Kingdom. From the opening ceremony by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II Institute for Parliamentary Services (PIPS) with an article by its Executive International Women’s Day 2018 was marked by The Parliamentary Report and Third Reading section in this issue at Buckingham Palace to the Commonwealth Foreign Ministers Director, Mr Zafarullah Khan about the work that the Institute has Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) and includes parliamentary and legislative news from Canada Federal, meeting at Lancaster House, all of these events had a great impact. undertaken in parliamentary development and youth engagement. Commonwealth Parliaments across the world and this issue reports British Columbia, India, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Australia Federal. This issue reports from three of the four Commonwealth Forums The CPA Recommended Benchmarks for Democratic Legislatures on some of the events to mark the day as well as reports of CWP We look forward to hearing your feedback and comments - Women’s, People’s and Youth – which, together with the Business were developed as a global tool for parliamentary benchmarking regional strengthening activities and the historic unveiling of the first on this issue of The Parliamentarian, on the issues of concern to Forum, took place in London ahead of the main CHOGM 2018 and several CPA Branches are undertaking self-assessments using statue of a woman in the UK’s Parliament Square. Parliamentarians across the Commonwealth and to receiving your bringing together Parliamentarians, heads of government, global the benchmarks. This issue of The Parliamentarian hears from Ciara This issue of The Parliamentarian features news reports from the future contributions to this publication. leaders, business executives, civil society groups, international and Furlong and Amanda Honeyman from the Queensland Parliament CPA Executive Committee’s Mid-Year meetings in Mauritius; the Post- women’s organisations and young people. The Commonwealth who share their insights and experiences of the benchmarking process. Election Seminar for the of Kenya; Parliamentary Jeffrey Hyland Forums were a valuable opportunity to discuss shared agendas, forge V. K. Babu Prakash, Secretary of the Kerala Legislative staff training organised by the Centre for Parliamentary Studies and Editor, The Parliamentarian important new partnerships and celebrate common interests. Assembly (Kerala, India) writes about the Indian Parliament in relation Training (CPST) and the Parliament of Kenya in partnership with McGill [email protected] The Chairperson of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association to judicial matters and the role that it plays. University; and other CPA and Commonwealth news. (CPA) Executive Committee, Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, MP On 12 March 2018, the CPA Headquarters Secretariat (Cameroon) builds on the outcomes of the Commonwealth Women’s celebrated Commonwealth Day 2018 with young people from the CORRECTION: The Parliamentarian: 63rd CPC workshop report: A report from the 63rd Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC) Forum in her View article on the subject of ‘Women and Politics’ and the Commonwealth and this issue features a report and images of the which appeared in The Parliamentarian 2017: Issue Four (Volume 98) on ‘Workshop H: What factors fuel the rise of different kinds of CPA Secretary-General, Mr Akbar Khan in his View article writes about events in London alongside reports from many CPA Branches about nationalism?’ (page 314) stated that during the workshop, Hon. T. N. Thongdok, MLA, of the Legislative Assembly of Arunachal leveraging the Commonwealth network to make lasting change. the wide range of activities that took place across the Commonwealth Pradesh commented on the issue of Al-Shabaab, a militant Islamist group linked to Al-Qaeda. The CPA Arunachal Pradesh Branch has Hon. Anġelo Farrugia, MP, Chairperson of the CPA Small from St Helena to Zanzibar, Manitoba to New Zealand. asked us to clarify that the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly did not comment on this issue during the workshop. The publishers of The Branches (Malta) writes about the importance of the separation of The 9th Commonwealth Youth Parliament took place at the Parliamentarian are happy to make this correction and apologise for any confusion caused by this inadvertent error. In addition, the Speaker powers to democracy in the Commonwealth, a subject he spoke about at States Assembly in St Helier, Jersey in a cold and wintry February was incorrectly identified as the Speaker in the report published on page 296 in the same issue.

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WOMEN AND POLITICS

View from the CPA Chairperson

As democracies evolve throughout history, there stereotyped in many ways including the gender has been a growing call for political participation for distribution of labour as women are often placed in Images: CHOGM 2018/Commonwealth Secretariat. all genders, races and social class. The inclusion female-related roles and Committees. To enhance Second, solid political institutions and inclusive laws which help Above and below left: The CPA Chairperson, Hon. Emilia of women in the political sphere and growth the democratization of governance in transitional and promote sustainable development and drive societies forward are Lifaka, MP (Cameroon) took part in the 2018 Commonwealth of democracies either through conventional consolidated democracies, it is pivotal that gender best built with the consideration of various perspectives from different Women’s Forum, which took place in the run-up to the means of participation such as running for office, equality (especially with regards to the inclusion of experiences which is what female inclusion in the political and Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) unconventional ways such as sit-ins and participation women) is put at the forefront of the political agenda. legislative process brings to the table. In other words, how can you 2018 in London, UK. The opening session was addressed at rallies or even on descriptive or substantive bases We all do agree that political activities require make a decision as to how many months a woman needs for maternity by the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Rt Hon. Patricia of participation, though very vital, has been sidelined. time, money and a lot of sacrifice and which many leave if you have never been in a woman’s position to go through the Scotland, QC. Please turn to page 110 for full report. These and more have engendered a continuous women are ready to make. However, access to enduring process of being pregnant and giving birth? debate on the issue. Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, financial resources is a major setback for women. For women to make a noticeable difference in these regards, All over the globe, though women are MP, Chairperson of the CPA There are very few programs designed at the level it is essential that their numbers in Parliament increase. That continuously breaking through this glass ceiling, Executive Committee and of governments and by financial institutions to notwithstanding, the few women in politics today need to keep trying to their voices are still not heard. In Parliament and in Deputy Speaker of the National provide financing for women and also, women do make their voices heard and their presence felt. top-level decision-making positions in government, they will be in a the realms of policy making, women are still being Assembly of Cameroon not have the collateral to access loans from financial Female Parliamentarians contribute enormously to the day to position to influence policy directions, change parliamentary practices institutions. day running of national and sub-regional Parliaments across the and serve as role models to other women and provide a different In addition, women because of gender bias have Commonwealth. They play vital roles in assigned Committees, Q&A perspective in debates. a greater workload within the family and no economic or financial value sessions and the humanization of the political process as they are As an Association, we shall continue to promote gender equality and “As democracies evolve throughout is attached to this. considered less adversarial, more conciliatory, flexible, practical, as Members of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, we have history, there has been a growing call As an Association, the CPA will work in close collaboration with quick witted and committed to their duties. Women, when given the taken the lead through the adoption of the Commonwealth Women different legislatures across the Commonwealth to encourage opportunity, try to change the bias in policy priorities. Parliamentarians (CWP) strategic plan. It now remains our prerogative for political participation for all genders, Parliaments to hold their respective governments to account, to If women occupy leadership positions as Parliamentarians or other to live up to the expectations we set for ourselves. mainstream gender into public policy making because the absence of Being an example of a woman in politics who has been elected for races and social class. The inclusion clear gender policies give room for misinterpretation, and to combat three consecutive legislative periods in my country where the quota of women in the political sphere and discrimination, which if clearly defined will foster gender equality and system doesn’t yet apply, I firmly believe we are heading in the right gender balance. direction and I encourage young women to make their voices heard, growth of democracies either through Political will is required, not only to ratify the international connect with communities, set high standards, run for office and leave conventions relating to the advancement of women but to actually put a mark that other women can build on, just like those in that position conventional means of participation such in place the legal instruments for its implementation. We shall also today are doing. as running for office, unconventional encourage our governments to create a national organ (through an Slowly but surely, we will get there. I encourage all women in ombudsman) to monitor the implementation and mainstreaming of Parliament and other decision-making positions not only to leave the ways such as sit-ins and participation gender policies at the local and national levels. door wide open for other women but to stretch their hands behind and From a ‘fish-eye’ viewpoint, the inclusion of women across the pull in as many as possible. There is plenty of room if we work together. at rallies or even on descriptive or board, in general and in Parliament, in particular, serves not just as a substantive bases of participation, bridge connecting young women to a more assured future where the “Let us realize the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends sky is the limit, but also as a conscious awakening to solving issues towards justice” - Martin Luther King Jr. though very vital, has been sidelined. faced in today’s society. First, given that the ratio of women to men in leadership positions “In politics, if you want anything said, ask a man. If you want anything These and more have engendered a is 10:1 within today’s population, it is but befitting that women play an done, ask a woman” – British Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher continuous debate on the issue.” increased role in making decisions which affect them.

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Executive (Cabinet of Ministers) and the judiciary (the courts). At the footing. It has been argued that if there were a strict separation, and time, the Queen remained the of Malta, but considerable overlaps or checks and balances were inexistent, then all systems THE SEPARATION OF POWERS AND power relating to purely internal matters was devolved to a Cabinet of of Government would become unmoveable. A lack of cooperation Ministers under the leadership of a Maltese Prime Minister. between limbs would result in constitutional deadlock and therefore, Albeit a strict separation of powers is predicated in the Maltese many argue that a complete separation of powers is possible ITS IMPORTANCE TO DEMOCRACY Constitution, one can still find areas in which in practice this is neither in theory nor in practice. One can see this overlap in the UK questionable. A case in point – which I must say is very close to my with the position of Lord where historically, his position heart – is the evolution the Maltese Parliament has experienced was distinctive in that he was a member of all three branches of in the past two years. Up to a few months ago, notwithstanding Government and exercised all three forms of power. Parliament being politically autonomous from the two other branches, I believe the doctrine of the separation of powers remains administratively it remained part of the Public Service, hence its probably one of the most basic concepts which build a modern View from the CPA budget and staffing remained, to a certain extent, at the discretion democracy. The separation of powers is immensely important not Small Branches Chairperson of Government. This has now changed; the law has set up an only by setting out a clear division of power among the organs of the independent Parliamentary Service and made the Speaker of the state, but more importantly provides for the mechanisms that ensure House de jure responsible for its administration. As from this year the that these organs do not abuse the powers vested in them and from budget of the Parliamentary Service has been established by way of a being abused. I do, however, also agree that an overlap and balance resolution of the House, and new procedures have been put in place between the three powers and where they worked together to allowing the Service to engage its own staff. achieve a fully functional democratic system is required. Another issue of distribution of powers that concerned Parliament A degree of tension within the separation of powers will always Effective parliaments are essential to democracy, this tenet; in 2003 the Commonwealth Heads of was a case brought before the Constitutional Court in Malta by exist, and I believe that it is no secret that the greatest danger of the rule of law, human rights, gender equality and Government adopted the Latimer House Principles, a witness appearing before the Public Accounts Committee. abuse and excess will always lie with the executive arm – not judges economic and social development. Democracy which were intended to frame the relationship that The witness was challenging a ruling by the Speaker stating that or legislatures. It is with this in mind that I feel that as Commonwealth has many forms but it is usually predicated upon should exist between the three branches of power in according to the Guidelines for Witnesses Appearing before the Public members we need to keep in mind the Latimer House Principles that an effective separation of powers between the the light of political and governance challenges that Accounts Committee, a witness must answer all questions put to him we have agreed should provide an effective framework for power executive, the judiciary and the legislative – i.e. were being observed across the Commonwealth. unless these questions may incriminate him. The witness invoked sharing and control. It is the responsibility of each Commonwealth parliaments – to spread power and maintain It is indeed in the 2005 Malta CHOGM his ‘right to silence’, which the Constitutional Court upheld. We could member to regularly ask itself whether its Executive respects the checks and balances. Many of us hail from systems Communiqué that it was stated that: “Heads of course discuss the merits of this case and its implications for the freedom of the and the Judiciary to discharge their based on this tenet and perhaps would find any of Government noted that the Commonwealth tenet of the separation of powers at length, however I am merely responsibilities. other constitutional arrangement unusual. (Latimer House) Principles on the Accountability of referring to it to show that in practice, the division is not always a To conclude, I am also including the recommendations set out as The core legislative, oversight and and Relationship between the Three Branches of clear cut one. This is in spite of having a Constitution that posits this a result of the session at the Commonwealth People’s Forum. Across representational functions of parliaments Hon. Anġelo Farrugia, Government, which recognise the importance of a division in an unequivocal manner. the Commonwealth, the separation of the powers of parliament and provide an essential contribution to the quality MP, Chairperson of the balance of power between the Executive, Legislature In spite of the arguments which seem to justify and advocate the judiciary must be enhanced. Civil society calls on Commonwealth of a country’s overall governance by adding CPA Small Branches and and Judiciary, constitute an integral part of the a strict separation of powers without reservations, and that such Governments to: value to government policy, providing additional Speaker of the House of Commonwealth’s fundamental political values as set separation needs to be spelled out in a written Constitution, it would • Promote, utilise and realise the Commonwealth Latimer legitimisation for government actions and Representatives of the out in the Harare Commonwealth Declaration.” mean that the Mother of Parliaments itself would be on an unsure House Principles to ensure the financial and administrative activities, initiating policies independently of . Their application has helped to advance the rule of independence of parliament and the government, and enabling policy to be translated law, democracy and good governance globally. judiciary; into social reality by means of laws. This is the basis of our discussion today. Beyond the • Implement fair and impartial The theory of the separation of powers may be divided between theoretical treatises which cannot be argued with, within our own appointment processes for judicial two historical periods: ancient and modern. The ancient theory can Commonwealth jurisdictions, such a clear-cut separation of these officers and provide support, be traced back to ancient Greece and the philosophical writings of powers may not always exist, with possible blurring between them. particularly those in lower courts, where Plato [375 BC], Aristotle [323 BC] and Polybius [118 BC]. Classical Despite this, one should not underestimate Montesquieu’s ideas independence may be threatened; and political thought recognised the different functions of government. of law and their relationship with society, dating back centuries • Uphold and protect freedom of Aristotle, for example, distinguished between the deliberative, and in place, in the majority of modern democracies. His approach expression for the media. magisterial and judicial aspects of ruling. These ancient philosophers was grounded in the then radical notion that laws were not divinely and their writings have had a great influence on modern writers. inspired or handed down by ancient lawgivers, but evolved naturally This article is based on a speech and The separation of judicial power became prominent in out of everything that influences a country, including traditions, habits, presentation given by the CPA Small Montesquieu’s [1748] account on the separation of powers. In history, religion and economics. Laws, Montesquieu believed, could Branches Chairperson at the 2018 the political treatise Spirit of the Laws, Montesquieu distinguishes be rationally studied and then adjusted to increase liberty for all. We Commonwealth People’s Forum in London, between the legislative power, the executive power and what he calls can transpose this idea to most of societies in that their laws tend United Kingdom on 17 April 2018, ahead ‘the power of judging’, the judiciary. This tri-partite system is intended to reflect the culture and beliefs of a society. In fact, if one were to of CHOGM 2018. For a report of the event to prevent the concentration of unchecked power by providing analyse the evolution of the laws of a society one could have a good please turn to page 112. division of responsibilities allowing for checks and balances to avoid idea of how the belief and value systems of that society has evolved autocracy or inefficiencies. In many systems, however we observe over the same period. that the branches, especially the legislative and executive, are closely The doctrine of the Separation of Powers often lies in a written Left: The CPA Small Branches entwined, for example by the fact that Cabinet Ministers need to be constitution. In Malta for example, the 1964 Constitution made Malta Chairperson speaking on the appointed from elected Members of Parliament. an independent parliamentary democracy within the Commonwealth, Separation of Powers at the 2018 The Commonwealth has also recognised the importance of based on three organs of the state: the legislature (Parliament), the Commonwealth People’s Forum.

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Left: At the 2018 CHOGM, the Commonwealth Parliamentary CHOGM 2018: LEVERAGING THE Association (CPA) Secretary- General, Mr Akbar Khan presented to the Commonwealth Foreign COMMONWEALTH NETWORK Ministers meetings held at Lancaster House and chaired by the UK Commonwealth Minister, Rt Hon. Lord Ahmad. The CPA Secretary- General presented on behalf of the Commonwealth Associated th Organisations (AOs) to the Foreign View from the 7 CPA Secretary-General Ministers meeting together with, Lucy Slack, Deputy Secretary- At the opening of the 2018 Commonwealth Heads The CPA Treasurer, Hon. Vicki Dunne contributed General of the Commonwealth Local of Government (CHOGM) at Buckingham Palace a CPA perspective to the discussion of freedom of Government Forum (CLGF). Her Majesty The Queen said to the gathered religion and belief convened by the Commonwealth Commonwealth leaders “Put simply, we are one of the Initiative for Freedom of Religion and Belief (CIFoRB) world’s great convening powers: a global association at Lambeth Palace. of volunteers who believe in the tangible benefits that Commonwealth leaders met under the theme of The CPA’s work in democratic flow from exchanging ideas and experiences and ‘Towards a Common Future’ and addressed a wide governance was given a further boost by the respecting each other’s point of view. And we seem to range of issues and examined how member states will announcement of £4 million accountable be growing stronger year by year. The advantages are work even closer together on sustainability, fairness, democracy programme by the UK government plain to see. An increasing emphasis on trade between security and prosperity. The ever-present threat of former Prime Minister of New Zealand, who brought out concrete to strengthen democracy and broaden political our countries is helping us all to discover exciting new climate change was discussed at all levels and new examples from all of our session participants leading to an excellent participation across 18 Commonwealth countries and focus on political ways of doing business. And imaginative initiatives Mr Akbar Khan collaborations formed as well as the launch of the result with language from our partnership session being inserted participation of marginalised groups, including religious minorities and have shown how together we can bring about change Secretary-General of Commonwealth Blue Charter on ocean governance. into the Women’s Forum outcome document that was presented to women. The two-year programme will cover Commonwealth developing on a global scale.” the Commonwealth I had the opportunity to emphasise the broader Commonwealth leaders. countries across Africa, South Asia, the Caribbean and the Pacific and the The convening power of which Her Majesty Parliamentary Association Commonwealth network in the presentation I gave At the Commonwealth People’s Forum, the CPA Small Branches CPA Headquarters Secretariat will be working with a consortium led by the spoke and the Commonwealth network to which to Commonwealth Foreign Ministers at Lancaster Chairperson, Hon. Angelo Farrugia joined representatives of the Westminster Foundation for Democracy to deliver the programme. we belong was reiterated during the week-long events of the 2018 House on behalf of the nine Commonwealth Associated Organisations Commonwealth Journalists Association and the Commonwealth The Small States of the Commonwealth were also on the agenda at CHOGM. These words are not new to the organisation that I represent (AOs) at the Foreign Ministers Roundtable. I spoke of the ability to Magistrates and Judges Association in examining the role of the CHOGM 2018 with its focus on climate change and the impact on the as Secretary-General; they are part of the DNA of the Commonwealth add global value in our respective fields of operation by leveraging our separation of powers between the legislature, the executive and the world’s smallest nations and the signing of the Commonwealth Small Parliamentary Association (CPA) and our network of over 180 formal and informal partnerships, stakeholder networks, resources and judiciary in the Commonwealth, its effectiveness in providing democratic States Trade Finance Facility. The CPA is the only Commonwealth Parliaments and Legislatures and 17,000 Parliamentarians across the expertise across many different levels in the Commonwealth. governance, and the role of civil society. The CPA Small Branches body that works to strengthen national, state, provincial and territorial Commonwealth. Many of the CPA’s Members, whether Presidents, The AOs bring together a network of institutions, decision-makers Chairperson also highlighted the CPA’s role in the establishment of the assemblies and legislatures with many of these found in the CPA’s Prime Ministers or Foreign Ministers were at the heart of discussions and change agents, which could play a much stronger and more Commonwealth Latimer House Principles on the separation of powers Small Branches. taking place at CHOGM representing their Commonwealth nations. coordinated role in support of the practical realisation of Commonwealth and the CPA’s Recommended Benchmarks for Democratic Legislatures. It was exciting to see the Commonwealth’s vibrant youth network One Commonwealth Parliamentarian, Hon. Dr Joseph Muscat, MP, values. This potential of the AO network can only be fully realised by in action at the 2018 Commonwealth Youth Forum where participants Malta’s Prime Minister spoke of equality for all being at the heart of reaching beyond silos and working together and in partnership, including “Overall, we witnessed the from the CPA’s recent Commonwealth Youth Parliaments drew on the Commonwealth and said: “while respecting our different cultures with the Commonwealth’s intergovernmental wing, the Commonwealth Commonwealth network at its best at their experiences to contribute to the ‘Declaration by the Young People and backgrounds, the Commonwealth must be a force that nudges Secretariat, thereby allowing us to leverage the wider potential benefits of the Commonwealth and Action Plan’, which was presented to and encourages its Members to embrace this fundamental value. By of the Commonwealth for our 2.4 billion citizens. CHOGM 2018. The network is present, Commonwealth leaders. The Youth Forum’s theme of ’Powering our standing together, our Commonwealth has fought proudly for equality The rich tapestry of the Commonwealth AOs, including vibrant and has the potential to be Common Future’ emphasised the potential for young people in the amongst different races at a time when such equality could not be taken organisations such as the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) Commonwealth to make a tangible and lasting difference whilst also for granted.” and the Commonwealth Local Government Forum (CLGF), as well as utilised to mark lasting change and encouraging participants to contribute recommendations and actions The CPA Headquarters Secretariat was also represented by the the wider group of over 80 Commonwealth Accredited Organisations progress. The CPA will be making the towards a prosperous, secure, sustainable and fairer future. CPA Chairperson, Hon. Emilia Lifaka, MP (Cameroon); Hon. Vicki took a very active role in the many and wide-ranging events during the Overall, we witnessed the Commonwealth network at its best at Dunne, MLA (Australian Capital Territory), CPA Treasurer; and Hon. CHOGM week including the Commonwealth Forums. most of the Commonwealth network CHOGM 2018. The network is present, vibrant and has the potential Angelo Farrugia, MP, CPA Small Branches Chairperson and Speaker The four Commonwealth Forums – Women’s, Youth, People’s and as we go forward towards a common to be utilised to mark lasting change and progress. The CPA will be of the Parliament of Malta, who were very active throughout the Business - which brought together the vast Commonwealth network also making the most of the Commonwealth network as we go forward CHOGM week and flying the CPA flag at many different meetings and showed the vibrancy and nimbleness of the Commonwealth, highlighting future and in realising the commitment towards a common future and in realising the commitment to work events and deepening the CPA’s contacts with others in the greater case studies of Commonwealth bodies working with each other and beyond. to work together to foster a fairer, together to foster a fairer, more secure, more sustainable and more Commonwealth network. The Commonwealth Women’s Forum on the first day of CHOGM prosperous future for the benefit of all of our Commonwealth citizens. The CPA Chairperson, Hon. Emilia Lifaka gave a keynote address week included the CPA’s joint event delivered in partnership with more secure, more sustainable and at the launch of #ChangetheScript, a new campaign for women’s CLGF and the CPA UK Branch, and which demonstrated the role more prosperous future for the benefit Mr Akbar Khan empowerment in the Commonwealth led by UK Parliamentarian, and importance of women’s political leadership at all levels. We 7th Secretary-General Baroness Uddin and the National Commission on Muslim Women. were delighted to have the session chaired by Rt Hon. , of all of our Commonwealth citizens.” Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA)

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Right: CPA Chairperson, Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, MP (Cameroon) met Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon, UK Minister for the Commonwealth in London to discuss parliamentary strengthening ahead of CHOGM 2018.

Above: The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Africa Region Above: Parliamentary clerks from different Commonwealth Below: CPA Chairperson, Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, MP held an Executive meeting in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania chaired by the Parliaments attending a Professional Development Programme (Cameroon) and the CPA Secretary-General Mr Akbar Khan met Speaker of the National Assembly of Kenya, Hon. J. B. Muturi, MP. at the UK Parliament visited the CPA Headquarters Secretariat to with Hon. Harriett Baldwin, MP, UK Minister for Africa at the Foreign hear about the work of the CPA in parliamentary development. The & Commonwealth Office in London. clerks were: Mr David Bagnall (New Zealand); Mr Siegfried Peters (Québec); Ms Laura Ross (Tasmania); Mr Celumusa Erick Khoza (Swaziland); Ms Susan Cherotich Maritim and Mr Finlay Muriuki (Kenya). Above: Hon. Justin B. Muturi, MP, Speaker of the National Assembly of Kenya (centre) welcomes Hon. Alexandra Mendès, MP, CPA Vice-Chairperson and Member of the Federal and Mr Jerry Hartz, Director of Government Relations at the National Democratic Institute (USA) to the Post-Election Seminar in Mombasa, Kenya. For full report turn to page 104. Above and right: The Left: CPA Secretary- CPA Secretary-General, Right: Hon. Sardar General, Mr Akbar Khan Mr Akbar Khan met with Hussain Babak, MPA from met with the Cyprus High a high-level delegation the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Commissioner to the UK, from Maharashtra, India Provincial Assembly His Excellency Euripides at the CPA Headquarters in Pakistan together Evriviades together with Secretariat led by Shri with officials visited Baroness Uddin, Vice- Ramraje Naik Nimbalkar, the Commonwealth Chair of the UK All-Party Chairman, Maharashtra Above: CPA Chairperson, Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, MP Parliamentary Association Parliamentary Group for Legislative Council and Shri Haribhau Bagade, Speaker of the (Cameroon), the CPA Treasurer, Mrs Vicki Dunne, MLA (Australian Headquarters Secretariat the Commonwealth ahead Maharashtra Legislative Assembly together with four Members of Capital Territory) and the CPA Secretary-General, Mr Akbar Khan to meet with the CPA’s of the CHOGM 2018 to Legislative Council and Maharashtra Legislature Secretariat staff. met with new Members of the CPA Executive Committee ahead of Director of Operations, Mr Jarvis Matiya to discuss the CPA’s discuss parliamentary their Mid-Year Meeting in Mauritius. For a full report please turn to parliamentary strengthening opportunities and the CPA’s work in strengthening and Right: CPA Chairperson, page 102. the Asia Region and Pakistan. development. Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, MP (Cameroon) Below: A group of journalists from India met with the CPA Below right: The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Below: A group of MPs from the Parliament of Malta visited the and the CPA Secretary- Secretary-General, Mr Akbar Khan and CPA staff at the CPA Secretary-General, CPA during a week-long exchange visit to the Parliament of the General, Mr Akbar Headquarters Secretariat ahead of the CHOGM 2018. The visit Mr Akbar Khan met United Kingdom. Hon. Edward Zammit Lewis, MP, Hon. Stefan Khan met Sir Iain was organised by the British High Commission in New Delhi and with Hon. Kate Doust, Zrinzo Azzopardi, MP, Hon. Robert Cutajar, MP and Hon. Frederick MacLeod, Legal Advisor the Commonwealth Journalists Association (India Branch). MLC, President Azzopardi, MP met with the CPA’s Director of Operations, Mr Jarvis to the UK Foreign & of the Legislative Matiya and Head of the Secretary-General’s Private Office, Ms Commonwealth Office. Council of Western Meenakshi Australia to discuss Dhar to discuss Right: The CPA Secretary-General, Mr the CPA’s work the CPA’s Akbar Khan met with Hon. Christine in parliamentary parliamentary Scipio-O’Dean, MLC from the St strengthening for strengthening Helena Legislative Council in London to state parliaments opportunities discuss the recent CPA Post-Election and the CWP’s work and the CPA’s Seminar in St Helena for newly elected in gender equality. work in the Members and the launch of the CPA region. Roadshows for Young People.

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It is up to the younger generation to put their mark on the special Focus on a common future for young people as Commonwealth Parliamentary relationship that we have with the Commonwealth.” This was followed by a round table discussion on the theme Association celebrates Commonwealth Day 2018 of ‘The Role of Youth in the Implementation of the SDGs through Political Participation’. The round table discussion included a The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) has CPA, Mr Akbar Khan wide range of views on the implementation of the SDGs from CPA celebrated Commonwealth Day 2018 both in London at the CPA released a video Commonwealth Day Youth participants. Headquarters Secretariat and across the CPA’s nine Regions and message to CPA UK Parliamentarian, Lord Purvis of Tweed also spoke at the event over 180 Branches. Branches and said: and responded to questions on the role of youth in implementing the Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Head of the Commonwealth “Commonwealth SDGs and the Commonwealth trade potential. Baroness Uddin also and Patron of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, with Day provides us attended the CPA Headquarters Secretariat event at the UK Houses members of the royal family, attended celebrations in London to with the opportunity of Parliament. mark Commonwealth Day 2018 and attended one of the largest to reflect on what During the evening of Commonwealth Day 2018, Hon. Emilia multi-faith celebration services in Westminster Abbey. Hon. Emilia the Commonwealth means to us and our communities. The Monjowa Lifaka, MP, Chairperson of the CPA Executive Committee Monjowa Lifaka, MP, Chairperson of the CPA Executive Committee Commonwealth can play a vital role in ensuring a better future for and Mr Akbar Khan, CPA Secretary-General together with seven of and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of Cameroon, us all, today and for future generations. The 2018 Commonwealth the CPA Commonwealth Youth Programme participants attended together with the CPA Secretary-General, Mr Akbar Khan theme reminds us that only by working together can we secure a the Commonwealth Secretary-General’s Commonwealth Day Images: CPA Headquarters Secretariat and Commonwealth . represented the CPA at the service. The service was also attended more sustainable, prosperous, fairer and secure Commonwealth reception at Marlborough House in the presence of HRH The Prince by Commonwealth High Commissioners, the Commonwealth for everyone. I wish you all a Commonwealth Day that inspires of , HRH The Duchess of Cornwall and HRH The Duke of Secretary-General and dignitaries from around the Commonwealth you to work towards our common future.” Please visit www.cpahq. Cambridge. as well as senior org/cpahq/youtube to view the CPA Secretary-General’s video In addition, CPA Branches and Regions across the network politicians and message for Commonwealth Day 2018. of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association marked 1,000 local school The CPA Youth Programme on Commonwealth Day 2018 was Commonwealth Day in many different ways (see pages 96 - children. opened by the CPA Chairperson, Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, MP 101). Commonwealth Day has been celebrated around the Also attending who spoke of the importance of this year’s 2018 Commonwealth Commonwealth on the second Monday in March every year since the Commonwealth theme of ‘Towards a Common Future’ for the Commonwealth the 1970s. Day service were Parliamentary Association which promotes common goals for CPA young people Branches and the strengthening of Commonwealth Parliaments to For images of the CPA Commonwealth Day Programme 2018 from across the achieve democratic solutions. The CPA Chairperson emphasised please visit: www.cpahq.org/cpahq/flickr. Commonwealth the need for young people to participate in politics in order to who were have a voice in the democratic process and also the need for all attending the CPA Commonwealth Parliamentarians to listen to young people in their Commonwealth respective jurisdictions to ensure that they represent youth voices. Day Youth The CPA Chairperson said: “Over one billion young people hold Programme on the key to unlocking the challenges that we face – beyond our the theme of ‘Towards a Common Future’. The young participants respective borders. The CPA and the Commonwealth are truly represented the following CPA Branches: Pakistan; Sri Lanka; New global organisations.” South Wales; Falkland Islands; Gibraltar; Isle of Man; Malta; United The CPA Youth Programme participants heard from keynote Kingdom; Wales; Jersey; Cayman Islands; ; Montserrat; speaker, Hon. Dawn Butler, MP (United Kingdom) who is the Trinidad and Tobago; Kerala, India; New Zealand. Shadow Women and Equalities Minister in the UK Parliament. Dawn On Commonwealth Day 2018, the Secretary-General of the Butler said: “The future is too important to give up on your vision.

Above from top: HRH The Prince of Wales with CPA Commonwealth Youth Programme participants; HRH The Duke of Cambridge meets Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, MP, CPA Chairperson and Mr Akbar Khan, CPA Secretary-General; the CPA Chairperson with the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Rt Hon. Patricia Scotland, QC at the Commonwealth Day reception at Marlborough House.

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CPA Pakistan Branch CPA Cayman Islands Branch Opposition and To commemorate Commonwealth Day 2018, the National Assembly of The CPA Cayman Islands Branch continued the tradition of holding its annual the Government Pakistan, CPA Pakistan Branch and the Pakistan Institute for Parliamentary Youth Parliament to celebrate Commonwealth Day and in 2018, the 11th gave compelling Services (PIPS) organised a seminar on the theme of ‘Towards a Common Cayman Islands Youth Parliament was held. Nineteen students from Cayman arguments. Future’ at the PIPS main campus in Islamabad. Over 100 participants Brac and high schools as well as the University College of At the joined Pakistan’s premier Parliamentary organisations in celebrating the Cayman Islands helped the Branch to celebrate Commonwealth Day by conclusion of the Commonwealth Day including officials from the and the National enthusiastically participating in the annual Youth Parliament. debate, the youth Assembly of Pakistan, as well as faculty members and students from Youth participants came from ’s Layman E. Scott Sr. participants Fatima Jinnah Women University, International Islamic University, Pakistan High School as well as Cayman Prep and High School, Clifton Hunter attended a Institute of Development Economics, and Riphah International University; High School, Grace Christian Academy, John Gray High School, St. reception development partners including the European Union’s project Subai Ignatius Catholic School, Triple C School, the University College of the hosted by Hon. W. McKeeva Bush, MLA, Speaker of the Cayman Pakistan team and representatives from CDIP/British Council Pakistan. every voice to be heard’ which was followed by the Commonwealth Cayman Islands and Wesleyan Christian Academy, all on Grand Cayman. Islands Legislative Assembly where they received their certificates and The one-day event began with the national anthem of Pakistan, Day 2018 message of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Head of the With coordination and assistance from the Clerk of the Legislative plaques and awards were also given specifically for the best attendance followed by a recitation of the Holy Quran. Mr Zafarullah Khan, Executive Commonwealth which was read by Ms Rabia Basri from the National Assembly, Mrs. Zena Merren, the students chose their roles in the Youth (Alejandro Whittaker and Ashleigh Chin) and the best debaters (Daina Director of PIPS, in his welcome remarks, highlighted the importance of Assembly IR Wing. A video of the message from the CPA Secretary- Parliament, which included whether to serve on the government or Levy and Richard Webber). Every year, the Cayman Islands Youth the day and said that the seminar was taking place on the same day that General, Mr Akbar Khan was also televised during the seminar. This was opposition benches. The young people also got the opportunity to play Parliament is lucky to have a number of generous sponsors and for this the Senate of Pakistan is electing its Chairman and Deputy Chairman. He followed by the Commonwealth Day message by Hon. Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, the role of the Speaker, Clerk, Serjeant at Arms, Premier or Leader of the year the major sponsor was Harney’s Law Firm. also said that a shared heritage emanating from the ‘Westminster-’ Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan read by Mr Muhammad Opposition and decide on the topics to debate. This year, they chose to In addition to the Youth Parliament, the CPA Cayman Islands Branch democratic institutions paves the way for finding the ‘common’ in all the Rashid Mafzool Zaka, Director-General (Research & Legislation) at PIPS. debate on the age that students should leave school, government-run also had two students, Matthew Welds and Janelle Syms, representing member states of the Commonwealth. Mr Shamoon Hashmi, Regional Secretary for the CPA Asia Region A-Level courses and a requirement that candidates for a general election the Cayman Islands at the CPA Commonwealth Day Youth Programme Mr Zafarullah Khan also underscored the pertinent role of the CPA in gave an overview of the history and workings of the CPA and the role of should live in the district that they wish to represent. in London. The two participants had a series of insightful tours around the progress of democratic institutions in the member states and that the Pakistan within the organisation. Participants were also provided with the opportunity to speak to the UK Parliament and joined discussions with Members of Parliament CPA remained instrumental in providing the opportunity to learn from other The guest address was given on ‘Respecting Diversity and Harmony: Ms Kimberly Kirkconnell and Ms Danielle Roberts from the Ministry and important delegates in this unique experience. countries’ experiences in the legislative process, especially how the laws the core value of Commonwealth’ by chief guest, Hon. Dr Lal Chand Ukrani, of Education and Mr Orrett Connor, past Election Officer about their Miss Janelle Syms highlighted the opportunity to gain an insight into made during the colonial era were decolonised in the post-independence MPA from the CPA Sindh Branch and a Member of the CPA Executive experiences. Many Members of the Legislative Assembly including Mr the importance of youth participation period. He also spoke about the fact that the Parliament of Pakistan is in the Committee. He congratulated the participants on Commonwealth Day Arden McLean, Hon. Ezzard Miller and Organising Committee Members, in our democratic systems, as well process of launching PTV Parliament, a channel dedicated to covering the and stated that the differences of religion, race, colour, cast, creed, social Ms Barbara Conolly, Mr David Wight, Mr Alva Suckoo and Mr Kenneth as how countries can make an events and workings status should be kept aside in order to generate harmony in society. He Bryan assisted the participants. impactful difference when minds work of the Parliament, on emphasized the need to promote equality and create opportunities for all. The Youth Parliament gives the participants a true insight into together towards a common goal. the pattern of BBC He also thanked the organisers of the seminar for providing the opportunity how the democratic field operates in the Cayman Islands and with For Matthew Welds, he highlighted Parliament. to celebrate diversity among various nations of the Commonwealth and to the assistance of the Clerk and the Members, the young people were that the experience focused on many Seminar learn from others’ experiences and concluded by emphasizing the role of completely prepared and had the confidence to excel in the debates. opportunities for the development participants youth in peace and development in society. The experience for the students is far reaching as it provides them of youth empowerment throughout watched the A lively question-and-answer session followed with guest speakers with an insight into parliament, an opportunity to associate with peers the Commonwealth and offered him Commonwealth and delegates. To read the full transcript visit: https://pips.gov.pk/ from different schools, gain experience in public speaking, engage in the ability to voice a valid opinion on video ‘Helping pipscapacitybuilding/seminars/seminar-commonwealth-day. debates on topics that effect their lives on a daily basis and give them a matters that are directly affecting the platform on which their opinion can be heard. The students from both the youth of today. CPA Malta Branch On Monday 12 March 2018, the House of Representatives of Malta In his remarks, the Speaker said that in today’s day and age, which are CPA Isle of Man Branch benefits of being a young person from the Isle of Man.” joined Commonwealth Parliaments in celebrating Commonwealth Day, characterized by uncertainty and insecurity, the Commonwealth should be a Writer and international relations student, Annie Lennon and University Alex Eaton added: “It was a pleasure to attend the Observance of with the theme chosen for this year being ‘Towards a Common Future’. combination that offers assurance. He pointed out that the Commonwealth of Manchester undergraduate, Alex Eaton from the Isle of Man were Commonwealth Day. I had a wonderful time and am extremely grateful At the beginning of the sitting, interventions were made by the Minister offers an international platform to its members, including at parliamentary selected by the Executive Committee of the CPA Isle of Man Branch to for the experience. I really enjoyed having the opportunity to engage with of Foreign Affairs and Trade Promotion, Hon. Carmelo Abela, and the level, to exchange knowledge and experiences in various fields, not least join around 1,000 other young people from around the Commonwealth other young people from around the Commonwealth. We collaborated on Opposition spokesman on Foreign Affairs and Promotion of Trade, Hon. on issues directly to attend the Commonwealth Day Observance in Westminster Abbey. drafting legislative proposals to address several of the challenges faced Carmelo Mifsud Bonnici, as well as the Speaker of the House, Hon. affecting citizens. The two young people were attending the CPA Commonwealth Day by young people today, on topics as diverse as youth entrepreneurship Angelo Farrugia, also the CPA Small Branches Chairperson. At the end of Youth Programme in London. Annie Lennon said: “After an enlightening to gender equality, with highly knowledgeable input from both a shadow The debate in the chamber was based on a motion submitted jointly by his remarks the tour around the Houses of Parliament, we Minister and a former government peer.” both sides of the House. The resolution, adopted unanimously by the House, Speaker tabled the had the pleasure of joining other participants Chairman of the CPA Isle of Man Branch, Hon. Juan Watterson, recalled the central role of the Commonwealth in bringing people together Commonwealth Day from the Commonwealth for a discussion on SHK, said: “One in three young people aged between 15 and 29 live from around the world, and despite all their diversity, embrace values that 2018 message of how to best achieve the UN’s Sustainable in Commonwealth countries. The Commonwealth recognises the can provide a solid base on which to build a common future. Moreover, the Her Majesty Queen Development Goals, in the presence of Hon. important role young people have to make in shaping its future, so is resolution drew attention to the role that MPs elected by the citizens that make Elizabeth II, Head of Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, Chairperson of the adapting to change and challenging and building on its strengths and up the Commonwealth’s future can play and to encourage them to be active the Commonwealth. Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. It assets to create brighter prospects for everyone in the Commonwealth in various forums of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. was a wonderful experience to meet her and, ‘family’. I am pleased that Annie and Alex found their experience of of course, to discuss these pressing issues Observance of Commonwealth Day inspiring and that they had the With thanks to CPA Branches for sharing their Commonwealth Day 2018 news. Several CPA Branches applied for additional with other young people. Having access to opportunity to discover more about the common values and aspirations bursary funding from the CPA Headquarters Secretariat to assist with their activities this year. For 2019 Commonwealth Day this global association is just one of the many that define and unite the Commonwealth.” funding applications please email [email protected] or contact the CPA Headquarters Secretariat for details.

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CPA St Helena Branch Andrew School CPA Zanzibar Branch Commonwealth Day 2018 was celebrated in St Helena with the raising Student Council The CPA Zanzibar Branch marked Commonwealth Day 2018 by holding of the Commonwealth Flag at an event held at the Jamestown Community presented the its Youth Parliament on 12 March 2018. A total of 50 youth members Centre in the presence of Her Excellency the Acting , Members Budget Challenge, drawn from all districts of Zanzibar convened the Youth Parliament and of the Legislative Council, CPA St Helena Branch Members, Government which replicated the the selection of the youth participants considered the following criteria: officials, students of Prince Andrew School and invited guests. annual challenges gender balance; representation of disabled youth; representation of The day began with opening remarks from Hon. Eric Benjamin, faced by the each district of Zanzibar. Speaker of the Legislative Council, before the Deputy Speaker, Hon. John Elected Members Prior to Commonwealth Day, the CPA Zanzibar Branch Executive Cranfield, raised the Commonwealth Flag as part of the ‘Fly a Flag for to allocate funding Committee and Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) held the Commonwealth’ campaign, during which it was planned for over one for different projects a press conference at which about thirty media houses were invited thousand Commonwealth Flags to be flown across the Commonwealth. on St Helena. and briefed about the Commonwealth Day 2018 events. Through the Members of the Prince Andrew School (PAS) Student Council then read Students were media, information reached out to a wide cross section of the Zanzibar the Commonwealth Affirmation and a message from the Commonwealth asked to act as the Financial Secretary and Elected Members and to populace as well as the Tanzania mainland. Youth from different areas Secretary-General, Rt Hon. Patricia Scotland, QC. allocate £1million for St Helena. They had to deliberate current Island of Zanzibar manifested their passion to come and observe the Youth acting as the Minister for Employment. The Acting Governor of St Helena, Miss Louise MacMorran, then read issues, prioritise these by importance, and show where and how they Parliament during the day. The Youth Parliament debated a Government Bill on the improvement of the message from the Head of the Commonwealth, Her Majesty Queen would spend their budget on their chosen projects and sectors. Youth Parliamentarians were trained by officials of the House education in Zanzibar introduced by a Minister for Education and Vocational Elizabeth II to the people of all Commonwealth countries. These included implementing improvement plans to Island roads, of Representatives ahead of Commonwealth Day on parliamentary Studies which was eventually passed at all levels. Youth Parliamentarians A competition was run at Prince Andrew School where students were asked education, residential care and renewable energy, with the majority of procedures and they were asked to prepare their documents relating to also discussed two Members’ motions in respect to gaps in the Act relating to produce a written piece based on the theme for Commonwealth Day 2018 groups referencing the 10-Year Plan. The presentations gave Members of business to be transacted during the Youth Parliament. to the establishment of a Zanzibar youth council and the need for and extent - ‘Towards a Common Future’. Student Ella-Rose Stevens, shared her entry Legislative Council a good chance to hear the views of the Island’s youth. The Youth Parliament dealt with the following business: the of involving youths in economic development of the country. called ‘My Common Future Commonwealth Cake’ in which she read a recipe Talks were then given by Tony Leo of the St Helena Beekeepers Speaker’s statement; Instruments to be laid; Questions and answers; a During the business in the Youth Parliament, participants resolved to that included ingredients for a happy, healthy and unified Commonwealth, Association and Julie Thomas of the St Helena Fisheries Corporation as Government Bill; an Urgent Member’s motion; and a Private Member’s come up with a number of recommendations, as pursuant to order 149 including health, education, love, aspiration, respect, integrity and unity. part of Enterprise St Helena’s Sustainable Development Hot Topics. motion. During the question and answers session, three questions of the standing Orders of the House of Representatives of Zanzibar, any Speeches were given by St Helena Councillors, Lawson Henry, Christine In his closing remarks, Councillor Derek Thomas, Chairperson of were asked relating to child and youth abuse, the unemployment crisis recommendations drawn from the Youth Parliament can be channeled to Scipio-O’Dean, Cruyff Buckley and Government Economist, Nicole Shamier the Commonwealth Day Working Group, thanked all in attendance and facing youths and the government through the Standing Committee on Women and Youth which focussed on the 10-Year Plan and the draft Sustainable Economic congratulated those who participated in the celebrations, making special the performance Development. Development Plan, which are futuristic and set out the path for sustainable mention of the Prince Andrew School students. He spoke about his of Zanzibari The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ho. development that will benefit St Helena and its people. ambition for St Helena to continue to develop and work alongside other students in national Mgeni Hassan Juma assured the Youth Parliamentarians that their After a quick refreshment break, groups of students from the Prince Commonwealth countries towards a common future. examinations. The recommendations would be duly forwarded to the respective questions were Standing Committee of the House for further action and engaging the CPA Northern Territory Branch their passports as they went, and responded to by government. The Chair of CPA Zanzibar Branch, Hon. Simai Mohammed Over the course of a week, the Parliamentary Education Service of the was closely linked to the Australian different Ministers Said congratulated the Youth Parliamentarians for a ‘job well-done’ and Northern Territory welcomed some 470 participants from nine different History and Geography curricula. including a blind promised that the CPA Zanzibar Branch will ensure that the next Youth schools from the Darwin, Palmerston and rural areas to engage them in Full sized flags of all Commonwealth youth participant Parliament shall be further improved. a programme aiming to promote awareness of the Commonwealth and nations were displayed overhead in the the CPA amongst young people in the Northern Territory. Main Hall of the Northern Territory’s The key program objectives were for students to gain knowledge Parliament House, forming an of the countries that comprise the Commonwealth, their region in the impressive visual spectacle. CPA New Zealand Branch world and the diversity, as well as the similarities of the people of these This year the Parliamentary The annual multi-faith National Observance of Commonwealth countries as we journey together ‘Towards a Common Future’. This Education Service placed a particular Day service was held at Cathedral of St Paul in New programme was jointly delivered with Government House. Students emphasis on flag protocol and Zealand on Commonwealth Day 2018. All of the flags from participated in a tour of the house and learned about the role of The vexillology. Members of the Flag Commonwealth countries were displayed. The theme for this Administrator of the Northern Territory. Society of Australia were consulted year’s commemoration was ‘Towards a Common Future’ and At Parliament House, students participated in an activity that saw and the Australian flag was positioned Her Excellency Rt Hon. Dame , Governor-General them completing ‘passport’ quiz booklets based on the regions of in the place of honour in the Main of New Zealand, delivered the Commonwealth Day 2018 the world where we find Commonwealth countries. The activity saw Hall alongside the Commonwealth Flag. The flags and displays were also message from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Head of the students answer questions with the aid of informative posters and stamp available for viewing by members of the public visiting Parliament House. Commonwealth to the audience which included Members of the , young people from schools around the region, representatives from various Commonwealth countries, CPA Manitoba Branch local communities and the diplomatic corps. Ms Wendy Hart The CPA Manitoba Branch recognised Commonwealth Day 2018 also attended as the CPA Pacific Regional Secretary. through the Protocol Office for the Manitoba Government who arranged This National Observance of Commonwealth Day is for the flags of all Commonwealth countries to be on display in the organised by the New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs, beautiful Rotunda located immediately to the north of the Legislative in partnership with the Wellington Cathedral of St Paul, the Assembly Chamber at Parliament House. Wellington Interfaith Council, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Royal Commonwealth Society (Wellington)

and Commonwealth Youth New Zealand (CYNZ). Image credit: New Zealand Office of the Clerk.

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CPA Jamaica Branch MP, Minister CPA Zambia Branch In spite of a nationwide strike by Jamaica’s teachers and the challenges of State in the On Monday 12 March 2018, the CPA Zambia Branch joined the rest of posed by technical difficulties encountered, the Virtual Forum on Ministry of the Commonwealth in commemorating Commonwealth Day 2018. The Development which was staged on Commonwealth Day 2018 in Jamaica Education, and day was commemorated in Lusaka at the Parliament Buildings under went a far way in achieving its aim of exploring how development could be Senator Damion the theme of ‘Towards a Common Future’. The Commonwealth Day achieved in a sustainable manner in Jamaica and the Commonwealth. Crawford, celebrations have become a platform to promote youth participation The event was held at the Houses of Parliament and saw the Opposition in the National Assembly of Zambia. In this regard, the Branch invited attendance of some thirty people, primarily Parliamentarians and Spokesperson Secondary Schools from each of the ten Provinces to attend and one parliamentary staff. Resident High Commissioners were invited to attend on Youth and school/two learners (one male and one female) were selected from each the event virtually via the internet as were the students who were to Culture. This Province. In addition, a school was selected from each of the seven participate in the discussions. Unfortunately, due to the strike, only two session tackled constituencies of Lusaka province to participate in the activities. A total National Assembly and representatives from the Ministry of Education. of the schools that had been scheduled to participate in live discussions the issues number of 90 learners participated in the programme. The Commonwealth Day 2018 message by Her Majesty Queen were able to do so – however a third school, Titchfield High, had of equity in Commonwealth Day was commemorated in collaboration with the Elizabeth II was read by one of the learners and the ceremony was submitted video shorts prior to the event. trade among Ministry of General Education and a committee comprising of staff from also characterized with drama, traditional dances and entertainment The day’s programme consisted of three segments: a formal portion, Commonwealth partners, environmental responsibility and the creation of various departments of the National Assembly was constituted to help by a local musician. Participants also heard a poem by learners from a Commonwealth video segment and discussions. The formal part began cohesive societies through respect for self and others. Students also raised the with the planning and implementation of the Commonwealth Day activities. David Kaunda Technical High School. The poem was based on the 17 with a welcome by the Clerk to the Houses, Mrs Heather E. Cooke. This issue of inter-country cooperation in the field of education and skills training. The First Vice-President of the CPA Zambia Branch, Mr Mwansa A. Sustainable Development Goals and stressed the fact that the SDGs was followed by the Commonwealth Day messages of Her Majesty Queen The messages of “the centrality of the shared values of the Mbulakulima, MP delivered the opening speech on behalf of the President illustrate the underlying theme of having a common future, as all nations Elizabeth II and the Prime Minister, Hon. Andrew Holness, MP which were Commonwealth to sustainable national development” and “the of the CPA Zambia Branch and Speaker of the National Assembly of seek for the betterment of their respective populations as a whole. read by young members of staff. The Leader of the Opposition, Dr Peter importance of cooperation” which were messages present in the Zambia, Rt. Hon Justice Dr. Patrick Matibini, SC, MP. He stated that all The main activity for Commonwealth Day was an open day to open up Phillips, MP, delivered his Commonwealth Day message by video. previous year’s celebration were also echoed in this year’s event. Another member countries of the Commonwealth, regardless of size, wealth, race or Parliament to the learners and give them the opportunity to learn about the The Speaker of the House, Hon. Pearnel Charles, MP, in his overview takeaway from the event was the usefulness of technology in bridging religion have an equal say in shaping the Commonwealth of tomorrow. He operation of Parliament and to interact with MPs. Participants toured the of the CPA spoke to the Association’s involvement in promoting good the communication barrier posed by distance. The two schools that were encouraged the learners to share ideas on how best the Commonwealth Parliament Buildings and saw the chamber, Committee rooms, media centre governance across the Commonwealth and made specific mention actually able to participate are located on the opposite side of the country, can positively shape the future of Zambia. Those in attendance included and the National Assembly of Zambia Library, to see how the library provides of initiatives such as the CPA Masterclasses and CPA Fundamentals approximately 4 and 5 hours away, respectively from the Parliament Members of the Executive Committee, senior members of staff of the materials, books and literature that MPs and staff use in their daily work. programmes which are geared towards improving the capacity of and would normally not have been able to participate in our usual Parliamentarians to participate in the process of governance. Commonwealth Day activities. In spite of the difficulties encountered with In the video segment, the Commonwealth Day message of the CPA this year’s staging of the event, we will pursue the use of technology in CPA Branch Co-operative Republic of Secretary-General and the Commonwealth video: Helping Every Voice widening the reach of our activity in future years. The CPA Guyana Branch focused their celebrations for Commonwealth Guyana; the Speaker of be Heard were played to demonstrate how the Commonwealth worked The Commonwealth Day event was covered by the Public Day 2018 on all Commonwealth countries combining their efforts to the National Assembly; cohesively in spite of the differences in location, size and economies of Broadcasting Corporation of Jamaica who televised the event live and develop methods to combat climate change. This was envisaged as the Minister of State; its Member States. streamed it via their YouTube channel. To watch the event please visit an opportunity to sensitize people to the issues of climate change and the Opposition Chief The discussion segment of the programme was led by Hon. Floyd Green, https://youtu.be/1Y4EFRNEg0U. advocating the importance of being protagonists for protecting the Whip; a representative environment. Participation was sought from youth who were invited to of the Environmental create innovative projects that would teach positive attitudes and encourage Department of the CPA Australian Capital Territory the ACT Legislative Assembly, including the Leader of the Opposition, citizens to protect the environment and, by extension, combat climate University of Guyana On Tuesday 20 March 2018 (it was a public holiday on 12 March) Mr Alistair Coe, MLA and Mrs Vicki Dunne, MLA, the CPA Treasurer. change. Other participants were also invited to lend their voices on a and a representative the CPA Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Branch held an event to Following a speech by the Speaker, the most senior High discussion on combating climate change. from the Office of Climate Change. Representatives from the British High mark Commonwealth Day 2018. The function was hosted by the Commissioner in Australia, His Excellency Carmel Muscat, the High The first activity on Commonwealth Day 2018 was an exhibition of the Commission, High Commission of Canada and the Indian High Commission President of the CPA ACT Branch, Hon. Joy Burch, MLA, Speaker Commissioner for Malta, also gave a speech. This was followed by innovative projects on climate change held in collaboration with the Ministry were also given the opportunity to make remarks on the theme. of the Legislative Assembly and was attended by twelve High Ms Stefany Sarkis from the Melba Copland Secondary School who of Education and the University of Guyana. The exhibitors from the eleven Later in the week of Commonwealth Day 2018, a prize-giving ceremony Commissioners of the Commonwealth based in Australia’s capital city read the 2018 Commonwealth Day message from Her Majesty Queen Education Districts in Guyana were invited to create and exhibit projects was held for the winners of the Essay and Poster Competition which of Canberra, as well as school captains and principals from various Elizabeth II, Head of the Commonwealth. The Speaker then proposed that would encourage citizens to protect the environment and to combat was held during the observance of last year’s Commonwealth Day, secondary schools in the ACT. Also in attendance were Members of a toast to Her Majesty and to the Commonwealth. climate change with two submissions per district. under the theme of ‘A Peace-Building Commonwealth’. Prizes were The exhibition was attended by Acting President Hon. Carl B. Greenidge, given to participants in the primary and secondary schools by Hon. Dr MP; Hon. Gregg Quinn, British High Commissioner to Guyana; Hon. Dr Barton Barton Scotland, MP, Speaker of the National Assembly and parents and Scotland, MP, Speaker of the National Assembly and students from many of the colleagues were invited to the prize-giving ceremony along with Members of schools exhibiting. the Executive Committee of the CPA Guyana Branch. Immediately preceding The final event for Commonwealth Day was the unveiling of a the exhibition, a number Commonwealth Tree planted in the compound of the Public Buildings. of speeches were given The almond tree had been planted at the north-eastern side of the Public on the theme of climate Buildings in observance of Commonwealth Day 2013 and upon the advice change including Hon. Carl of the Speaker of the National Assembly, the tree had been trimmed, fenced Greenidge, Vice-President and a plaque had been erected which contains of why the tree was planted. and Minister of Foreign Hon. Raphael Trotman, MP, Minister of Natural Resources and Hon. Vindhya Affairs, who was performing Persaud, MP were invited, along with other Members, to witness the unveiling the duties of President of the by Hon. Dr Barton Scotland, MP, Speaker of the National Assembly.

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Mauritius hosts Commonwealth Parliamentarians as island nation celebrates CPA New Zealand Branch host CPA UK delegation in Wellington 50th anniversary of independence

The National Assembly of Mauritius and CPA Mauritius Branch The New Zealand Parliament and CPA New Zealand Branch hosted over 30 Commonwealth Speakers and Members of welcomed a bilateral visit from the Parliament of the United Kingdom and CPA UK Branch. The delegation was led by Rt Hon. Lord Foulkes Parliament for the Mid-Year meetings of the Executive Committee of Cumnock, CPA UK Vice-Chairperson and they were received by of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) from 20 to the Speaker of New Zealand’s House of Representatives, Rt Hon. 24 March 2018. , MP. The delegation held a number of meetings and The CPA Executive Committee meetings took place just a few visited the New Zealand National War Memorial. days after Mauritius, the island nation off the east coast of Africa, Ahead of the 2018 Commonwealth Women’s Forum taking celebrated the 50th anniversary of its independence on 12 March. place in London, UK the following week, Commonwealth Women The country is also marking its 26th anniversary as a Republic. For the Parliamentarians National Assembly of Mauritius, one of the CPA’s active Branches (CWP) from New in the Africa Region, hosting a large-scale international meeting Zealand and the demonstrates its commitment to parliamentary democracy and the UK also met in work of the CPA. The National Assembly of Mauritius has recently Wellington, New Zealand to discuss benefitted from a CPA Technical Assistance Programme which Members of the CPA International Executive Committee, to take shared initiatives resulted in the launch of a new Parliamentary Gender Caucus in the this opportunity to thank the Hon. Madam Speaker Hanoomanjee on gender and The delegation visit was followed by the CPA Pacific Islands Assembly to promote gender equality and an inclusive Parliament. and CPA Mauritius Branch for hosting the meeting and for their equality, co- Parliamentary Workshop, co-hosted by the CPA New Zealand Members of Parliament representing the nine regions of the unwavering support to the CPA.” chaired by Louisa and UK Branches, helping to share parliamentary knowledge CPA – Africa; Asia; Australia; British Islands & Mediterranean; The CPA Vice-President, Rt Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, MP, Wall, MP and Jo and build bonds with Pacific delegates. Canada; Caribbean, Americas & Atlantic; India; Pacific; and Speaker of the ; CPA Vice-Chairperson, Hon. Hayes, MP (see South East Asia – attended the CPA Executive Committee, the Alexandra Mendes, MP (Canada Federal); the CPA Treasurer, Mrs page 141). governing body of the Association. The CPA meetings enable Vicki Dunne, MLA, Deputy Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Commonwealth Parliamentarians to reach beyond their own of the Australian Capital Territory; and the CPA Small Branches Parliaments to contribute in a global setting to the development Chairperson, Hon. Anġlu Farrugia MP, Speaker of the House of of best parliamentary practices and the most effective policies for Representatives, Malta also attended the meetings along with the CPA Secretary-General gives reading at Commonwealth service at Chelmsford Cathedral parliamentary strengthening. CPA Secretary-General, Mr Akbar Khan and staff from the CPA Hon. Mrs Santi Bai Hanoomanjee, Speaker of the National Headquarters Secretariat. CPA Regional Secretaries also attended Assembly of Mauritius said: “As a new member of the Commonwealth, the meetings in Mauritius and they held their bi-annual meeting with The Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, our successive leaders have since independence been constantly the CPA Chairperson and CPA Secretary-General ahead of the Mr Akbar Khan attended a special inspired by the fundamental values of the Commonwealth and have main Executive Committee meetings. multi-faith and multi-cultural service at on all occasions seized the opportunity to consolidate these values, Ahead of the CPA Executive Committee Mid-Year meeting, Chelmsford Cathedral in , to namely, democracy, the democratic processes, the rule of law, the students at the University of Mauritius were able to find out mark the founding of the Commonwealth independence of the Judiciary, fundamental rights and gender parity. about the Commonwealth, parliament and democracy at a CPA and its past, present and future. As an active member of the CPA, our parliamentary democracy Roadshow, organised by the National Assembly of Mauritius and The service was hosted by the Lord- nurtures these values and we are therefore proud to welcome the the CPA. The CPA Roadshows provide an opportunity for young Lieutenant of Essex, Mrs Jennifer Tolhurst holding of this CPA Executive Committee Meeting in Mauritius.” people to discuss issues of concern about their society and and was one of many Commonwealth The Chairperson of the CPA Executive Committee, Hon. Emilia democracy, to meet Members of Parliament and Parliamentary services and celebrations across Monjowa Lifaka, MP, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of staff and to find out more about the work of the CPA. The CPA the United Kingdom following the Cameroon chaired the meetings in Mauritius for the first time as Roadshow in Mauritius was attended by Mrs Vicki Dunne, MLA, Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) and Chairperson and said: “This is my very first time to preside over the CPA Treasurer; Hon. Bridgid Annisette-George, Speaker of the Mid-Year Executive Committee meeting of the CPA as Chairperson House of Representatives of Trinidad and Tobago; local Member Images of Chelmsford Cathedral service copyright Paul Starr Photography. since I was of Parliament from Mauritius, Commonwealth Summit 2018. The CPA Secretary-General gave two readings including elected Hon. V. V. Baloomoody, MP; the Commonwealth Affirmation. The service was attended by as CPA and the CPA Secretary- representatives from many different organisations including the Chairperson General, Mr Akbar Khan. The Mayor of Chelmsford, Councillor Duncan Lumley; Rt Revd Trevor at the CPA CPA Secretary-General and Mwamba, Assistant Bishop in the Diocese of Chelmsford; Cllr John General members of the panel spoke Aldridge, Chairman of Essex County Council; and Sir David Amess, Assembly in about the importance of young MP for Southend West. Bangladesh people’s engagement in Many young people attended the service and there were last November. politics and the panel answered performances by the Band of the Corps of Royal Engineers, the I would like, students’ questions. Colchester Garrison Fijian Choir, Essex Army Cadet Force, Essex on behalf of Dance Theatre and the Chelmsford Cathedral Choir.

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Post-Election Seminar helps strengthen knowledge of parliamentary practice Parliamentary staff training programme in Kenya builds skills for Commonwealth and procedure for newly elected and returning Kenyan MPs Parliaments and Legislatures

Newly elected and returning Members of the National Assembly of Parliamentary staff from 15 Commonwealth Parliaments have Kenya have strengthened their knowledge of parliamentary practice undertaken a staff development programme at the Enashipai Resort in Naivasha, Nakuru County (100km from Nairobi), Kenya and procedure at the Post-Election Seminar held jointly with the which has been organised by the Centre for Parliamentary Studies Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) in Mombasa, and Training (CPST) and the Parliament of Kenya. Kenya, from 4 to 8 March 2018. The CPA Post-Election Seminar The Speaker of the National Assembly of Kenya, Rt Hon. Justin focused on the theme of ‘Sharing our experiences to enhance good B. N. Muturi, MP opened the seminar and described the training as governance and continually safeguard the welfare of the nation’ an empowering tool for staff who play a crucial role in Parliament. which enabled recently elected Parliamentarians to gain a broader He said: “This training will help improve the skills and knowledge understanding of the principles of parliamentary democracy and of the senior staff and will help the National Assembly play its role strengthen their skillsets. better.” Hon. Justin B. N. Muturi, MP, Speaker of the National Assembly Founded by the World Bank and McGill University in collaboration with of Kenya opened the seminar and said: “Parliaments must remain the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and other international accountability; parliamentary research; corporate management of an inspiration to society and they must also carry the burden of Kenya is one of the largest legislatures in the CPA’s membership partners, this intensive professional development programme builds Parliament; and e-learning. Keynote speakers at the seminar included skills for the Professional Development Certificate in Parliamentary actualizing these aspirations. Parliaments remain an intrinsic and over 300 delegates participated in the three day seminar, which the Clerk of the National Assembly of Kenya, Mr Michael Sialai; Management and the component of the success that the Commonwealth has leveraged to gave Members the opportunity to gain a better understanding of Professor Nyokabi Kamau, the Executive Director of CPST and programme includes Professor Rick Stapenhurst from McGill University, Canada. enhance democracy and propagate good governance.” Hon. Moses the parliamentary systems and democratic processes in other a one-week residency The following CPA Branches were represented at the training Cheboi, MP, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of Kenya; the Commonwealth jurisdictions. Hon. Alexandra Mendès, MP, CPA seminar followed by (funded through the CPA Headquarters Secretariat): Australia; Vice-Chairperson and Member of the Federal Parliament of Canada Leader of the Majority Party, Hon. Aden Duale, MP; and the Leader of expert-moderated online Fiji; Gujarat; Jersey; New Zealand; Northern ; Pakistan; the Minority Party, Hon. John Mbadi, MP also attended the seminar. spoke about parliamentary ethics and codes of conduct while Rt Hon. courses and one-on-one Kwazulu-Natal; Mpumalanga; North West Province (South Dr Patrick Matibini, Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia and professional mentoring. Africa); Trinidad and Tobago; and Zambia. In addition, three further Hon. Lady Justice Philomena Mwilu, MGH, Deputy Chief Justice and The course covers a Branches attended the programme (not-CPA funded): Tanzania, Vice President Supreme Court of Kenya spoke about the importance diverse range of topics Kenya and Guyana. of the separation of powers between the legislature, the executive including: government and the judiciary. Senator Lucy Gichuhi from the Federal Parliament of Australia spoke about her experiences as a Member of Parliament; Mr Tom New Commonwealth Media Principles launched ahead of CHOGM 2018 Duncan, Clerk of the Legislative Assembly for the Australian Capital Territory and CPA Australia Regional Secretary presented on The Commonwealth Journalists Association (CJA) have launched Parliamentary Association overcoming the challenges of managing parliamentary business; a new document titled ‘Commonwealth Principles on the role and other concerned and Mr Jerry Hartz, Director of Government Relations at the National of the Media in Good Governance’. The new principles were organisations. The new launched ahead of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Commonwealth Media Democratic Institute gave examples of parliamentary accountability Meeting (CHOGM) 2018 at a special event held at the Institute of Principles provide a tool to and ethics in the USA. Commonwealth Studies in London. help the Commonwealth The new Commonwealth Media Principles are a response to family improve its record the growing challenges to media freedom and other threats to fair for media freedom and The CPA Secretary-General, Mr Akbar Khan, addressed the elections and open accountable government in opening of the seminar and said: “Elections as a demonstration of public debate and line with the Commonwealth’s democracy have the potential to bring a tremendous diversity of the principles were strong commitment to the backgrounds to our Parliaments. This necessitates the need for developed by the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. Members to receive induction and development to enable them to Commonwealth The launch event for the new Commonwealth Media Principles get to grips with discharging their representative and constitutional Journalists saw the CPA Secretary-General, Mr Akbar Khan speaking in a functions. The CPA Post-Election Seminars serve as reflection Association and panel debate on the implementation of the new principles alongside the Institute of Lord Black of Brentwood, Chair of Trustees, Commonwealth Press of the ‘mutuality of learning’ which is at the heart of our CPA Commonwealth Union Media Trust and Executive Director of the Telegraph Group; mandate of connecting, developing and promoting a community of Studies together Rita Payne, Emeritus President, Commonwealth Journalists Parliaments and Parliamentarians who individually and collectively with senior Association; Peter Slinn, Vice-President of the Commonwealth strengthen their commitment to democratic governance across our figures from the Legal Education Association; Sanjoy Hazarika, Director, Commonwealth.” Commonwealth’s Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative; Kayode Soyinka, Editor- legal and in-Chief, Africa Today Magazine; and Caoilfhionn Gallagher, QC, CPA POST-ELECTION SEMINARS: If your Parliament or Legislature has recently experienced an election and you would like parliamentary Doughty Street Chambers. to organise a CPA Post-Election Seminar for the new and returning Members of the Legislature on parliamentary practice and community To access the Commonwealth Principles on the role of the procedure in Commonwealth Parliaments then please contact the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Headquarters including the Media in Good Governance please visit: https://commonwealth. Secretariat for more information. Email [email protected] or write to the CPA Headquarters Secretariat. Commonwealth sas.ac.uk/research-projects/media-freedom-commonwealth.

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QUEEN ELIZABETH II, HEAD OF THE COMMONWEALTH AND PATRON OF THE COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY ASSOCIATION OPENS CHOGM 2018

opening ceremony of the CHOGM closer together on sustainability, 2018 at Buckingham Palace by fairness, security and prosperity. the Secretary-General, Mr Akbar Member states also discussed Khan, who also attended many ways of collaborating to tackle meetings and events during the the threat of climate change. week. Under consideration by leaders Heads of all 53 Commonwealth at CHOGM 2018, were: nations met under the theme • A Commonwealth Blue of ‘Towards a Common Future’, Charter on ocean governance Images: CHOGM 2018/Commonwealth Secretariat. which was also the theme for • A Commonwealth Commonwealth Day on 12 March connectivity agenda for members of the Commonwealth force for building understanding business leaders, civil society Above: Her Majesty Queen 2018. CHOGM also addressed trade and investment over the decades and her role in and cooperation towards realising activists and literary figures. Elizabeth II opens the 2018 the four sub-themes of: a more • A declaration on cybercrime championing the Commonwealth global goals for social and political The Commonwealth Commonwealth Heads of sustainable future; a fairer future; • Revised Commonwealth and its peoples. Commonwealth progress, inclusive prosperity, and Women’s Forum explored the Government (CHOGM) in the Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II this is a flourishing network. It a more secure future; and a more guidelines on election leaders also confirmed that the sustainable development.” Commonwealth’s role in achieving State Ballroom at Buckingham opened the 2018 Commonwealth is my sincere wish that the prosperous future. observation in member next Head of the Commonwealth Many members of the royal gender equality in line with UN Palace to mark the start of Heads of Government Meeting Commonwealth will continue to Commonwealth leaders, countries will be HRH The Prince of Wales. family took part in Commonwealth aspirations and the crucial role two days of meetings with 53 (CHOGM) at Buckingham Palace offer stability and continuity for Ministers and senior officials Commonwealth leaders Commonwealth Secretary- events during CHOGM week and women should play in politics, Commonwealth leaders. to mark the start of two days of future generations, and will decide from the 53 Commonwealth reaffirmed their continuing General, Rt Hon. Patricia it was announced that the Queen business and peace building. The meetings with 53 Commonwealth that one day The Prince of Wales nations also met at Lancaster gratitude for the duty and Scotland, QC said: “CHOGM had appointed Prince Harry to Commonwealth Youth Forum leaders, both in London and at should carry on the important work House in London to discuss how commitment that Queen 2018 promises to deliver be the new Commonwealth brought together 500 young The Commonwealth Business Windsor Castle. started by my father in 1949. By member states will work even Elizabeth II has shown to all transformational change for the Youth Ambassador in his role people to engage in planning, Forum, organised by the The Queen said: “I am glad to continuing to treasure people of the Commonwealth. as President of The Queen’s capacity-building and a General Commonwealth Enterprise and see that young people, connecting and reinvigorate our Through consensus Commonwealth Trust, a Assembly where they finalised Investment Council in partnership through technology, are becoming associations and Commonwealth leaders will new youth charity which will their priorities on youth-led action in with the , took ever more involved. When I meet activities, I believe we reach agreement on collective provide a platform for young development and elected their new place at Guildhall in the City of the young leaders of this century, will secure a safer, action, with the impact of their change-makers across the Commonwealth Youth Council. London and was a unique platform I remember my own life-long more prosperous and decisions likely to extend far Commonwealth in areas such as The Commonwealth People’s for dialogue, bringing together commitment – made in South sustainable world for beyond the boundaries of the education, sport, health and the Forum, a joint venture between business and government leaders Africa in 1947 at the age of 21. those who follow us: Commonwealth. Agreement environment. the Commonwealth Foundation from across the Commonwealth. As another birthday approaches a world where the among our culturally diverse Commonwealth Forums took and the UK government, was The outcomes of the four this week, I am reminded of the Commonwealth’s and geographically widespread place ahead of CHOGM 2018 the single largest gathering Commonwealth Forums were extraordinary journey we have generosity of spirit can member countries to collaborate on four themes – Women’s, of civil society representatives presented to Commonwealth been on, and how much good has bring its gentle touch of and innovate often provides People’s, Business and Youth in the Commonwealth and leaders and Ministers ahead of been achieved. healing and hope to all.” the basis for broader progress - at the Queen Elizabeth II discussed key issues facing the CHOGM 2018. It remains a great pleasure and The Commonwealth regionally and internationally. Conference Centre. Participants Commonwealth people on honour to serve you as Head of the Parliamentary Immediate impact combined included Commonwealth leaders, the sub-theme of ‘Inclusive For further information about the Commonwealth and to observe, Association (CPA) with wider influence make the government ministers, members of Governance: The Challenge for a CHOGM 2018/Commonwealth Summit with pride and satisfaction, that was represented at the Commonwealth an unparalleled the royal family, senior UN figures, Contemporary Commonwealth’. please visit www.chogm2018.org.uk.

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COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARIANS CONTRIBUTE TO CHOGM 2018 AND ASSOCIATED COMMONWEALTH FORUMS IN LONDON

Above: The CPA Secretary- CPA Secretary-General CPA Chairperson and Above: The High Commissioner General presents to the presents to the CHOGM Secretary-General attend for Cyprus in the UK hosted the Commonwealth Foreign Foreign Ministers meeting launch event for ‘Change launch event for the new women’s Ministers meetings on behalf of on behalf of the CPA and the the Script’ women’s empowerment campaign the Commonwealth Associated Commonwealth Associated empowerment campaign ‘Change the Script’ held in the the CPA ensure effective governance and Organisations (AOs). Organisations during CHOGM week run-up to CHOGM 2018. Chairperson, democracy at a workshop session At the 2018 CHOGM, the The CPA Chairperson, Hon. Hon. Emilia at 2018 Commonwealth People’s CPA Secretary-General, Mr Emilia Lifaka, MP spoke at Lifaka, MP Forum. The CPA Small Branches and Belief held as part of the Akbar Khan presented to the launch event for a new (Cameroon) Chairperson also highlighted the Commonwealth Summit. The the Commonwealth Foreign women’s empowerment Pre-CHOGM reception and CPA CPA’s role in the establishment roundtable event was held at Ministers meetings held at campaign ‘Change the Script’ hosted for the CPA at Royal Officers of the Commonwealth Latimer Left and below: The CPA Lambeth Palace, the London Lancaster House and chaired held in the run-up to CHOGM Overseas League as well as House Principles on the Secretary-General, Mr Akbar residence of the Archbishop of by the UK , 2018. The campaign, led by The CPA Chairperson, Hon. the CPA separation of powers and Khan hosted a pre-CHOGM Canterbury, Rt Hon. Justin Welby Rt Hon. Boris Johnson, MP and UK Parliamentarian, Baroness Emilia Lifaka, MP attended a Secretary- the CPA’s Recommended reception in central London and was part-funded by the CPA the UK Commonwealth Minister, Uddin and the National pre-CHOGM reception and General Benchmarks for Democratic ahead of the main CHOGM Headquarters Secretariat. Rt Hon. Lord Ahmad. The CPA Commission on Muslim Women, dinner hosted by Dr Diana Owen, participated in Legislatures. See page 88 2018 events. The reception CPA Secretary-General, Secretary-General presented focusses on gender equality and Director-General of the Royal the Summit, for the CPA Small Branches was attended by the CPA Akbar Khan said: “CHOGM on behalf of the Commonwealth empowerment. The launch event Overseas League (ROSL) in the Forums Chairperson’s View article and Chairperson, CPA Treasurer, 2018 will deliver better Associated Organisations in London heard from the CPA London. The event was also Commonwealth Parliamentarians and other page 112 for a report of the Forum. members of the Commonwealth global outcomes for the (AOs)* to the Foreign Ministers Chairperson, the CPA Secretary- attended by the CPA Treasurer, participated in four associated events which took place. The CPA Treasurer, Hon. Vicki Women Parliamentarians Commonwealth’s 2.4 billion meeting together with, Lucy General, Mr Akbar Khan and Hon. Vicki Dunne (Australian Commonwealth Forums The CPA Chairperson, Hon. Dunne, MLA (Australian Capital (CWP) Steering Committee citizens, 60% of whom are under Slack, Deputy Secretary-General the event host, His Excellency Capital Territory); the CPA Small which took place ahead of Emilia Lifaka, MP (Cameroon) Territory) attended the two-day and speakers at the CPA/ the age of 30 by all parts of the of the Commonwealth Local Euripides Evriviades, the Cyprus Branches Chairperson, Hon. the Commonwealth Heads of took part in the CPA/CWP Commonwealth Roundtable CWP workshops including Rt Commonwealth family working Government Forum (CLGF). High Commissioner to the UK. Angelo Farrugia, MP, Speaker Government Meetings (CHOGM) workshop session on ‘Women’s organised by the Commonwealth Hon. Helen Clark, former New more closely together towards a of the Parliament of Malta; Hon. in the United Kingdom from Political Participation at All Initiative on Freedom of Religion Zealand Prime Minister. common future. *The Commonwealth Associated Laura Tucker-Longsworth, 16 to 20 April 2018. Over Levels’ in partnership with Members of the Organisations are: Commonwealth Speaker of Parliament of Belize; 5,000 people from parliament, the Commonwealth Local Commonwealth Parliamentary Association for Public Administration and Below: The CPA pre-CHOGM the CPA Secretary-General, government, business and Government Forum and the CPA Association representing over Management; Commonwealth Association dinner hosted by the Royal Mr Akbar Khan; and Sir David civil society came together to UK Branch, held at the 2018 180 Commonwealth Parliaments of Tax Administrators; Conference of Overseas League (ROSL) in Brewer, Chairman of the Royal participate in the week-long Commonwealth Women’s Forum. and Legislatures and 17,000 Commonwealth Postal Administrators; London, UK. Overseas League. CHOGM and the Forums The CPA Vice-President, Rt Hon. Parliamentarians across the Conference of Commonwealth under the theme of ‘Towards a Rebecca Kadaga, Speaker of the Commonwealth have been at Meteorologists; Commonwealth Common Future’, which was also Parliament of Uganda also spoke the heart of the discussions Games Federation; Commonwealth the theme for Commonwealth in a session on violence against taking place at key Forums and Education Trust; Commonwealth Local Day on 12 March 2018. CHOGM women in elections. See page side events. The CPA brought its Government Forum; Commonwealth also addressed the four sub- 110 for full report. unique perspective to CHOGM Parliamentary Association; Commonwealth themes of: a more sustainable The Chairperson of the 2018 through focusing on the Telecommunications Organisation. future; a fairer future; a more CPA Small Branches, Hon. key role that Parliamentarians secure future; and a more Angelo Farrugia, Speaker of the can and do play in every prosperous future. Parliament of Malta spoke about aspect of a nation’s life to bring Members of the the importance of the separation transformational change to Commonwealth Parliamentary of powers between the legislature, Commonwealth citizens’ lives.” Association (CPA) including the executive and the judiciary to

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GENDER EQUALITY AND OVERCOMING BARRIERS TO POLITICAL PARTICIPATION EMPHASISED AT 2018 COMMONWEALTH WOMEN’S FORUM

by: the Prime Minister of the Commonwealth Local Bangladesh, HE Sheikh Hasina Government Forum (CLGF) and and UK Secretary of State for the CPA UK Branch. International Development, The session was chaired by Rt Hon. , MP Rt Hon. Helen Clark, former New speaking about education Zealand Prime Minister, UNDP empowering girls; UK Home Administrator and current Patron Secretary, Rt Hon. Amber of CLGF who led the discussion Rudd and Commonwealth on the challenges facing Secretary-General, Patricia women’s political participation in Scotland speaking about the local and national government. SDGs; CPA Vice-President, Rt Helen Clark also invited MP, Commonwealth Women the role of men in helping to Members of the across the globe and how this Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, Speaker delegates to contribute pledges Parliamentarians Africa Regional empower women in politics and Commonwealth Women hidden problem needs to be of the Parliament of Uganda on what they will do to empower Chairperson stressed the need to Councillor Bev Esslinger, Chair Parliamentarians including the tackled. Jude Kelly from the WOW The 2018 Commonwealth Women’s Forum held a wide on violence against women in women and girls for leadership demystify politics for women and of the Federation of Canadian CPA Chairperson, Hon. Emilia (Women of the World) organisation Women’s Forum emphasised range of workshop sessions elections. roles in their communities. said: “Like any other job, you need Municipalities’ Standing Lifaka, MP also asked questions also addressed delegates at the women’s positive political, reflecting on some of the global The CPA’s focus on SDG The Mayor of Makeni, Sierra a support system around you.” Committee on International at the session. close of the Forum. economic and societal challenges still faced by women, 5 is highlighted most clearly Leone, Sunkarie Kabba-Kamara Councillor Buumba Malambo Relations from Edmonton, Members of the The outcomes of the workshop contributions ahead of the as part of a commitment to in the work undertaken by gave the keynote address and from Zambia highlighted the Canada spoke of the need for Commonwealth Women sessions at the Commonwealth Commonwealth Heads of ‘leave no one behind’ in the the Commonwealth Women spoke of her inspiration from the importance of education and more women in local government Parliamentarians also met in Women’s Forum were fed into the Government Meetings (CHOGM) Commonwealth journey to Parliamentarians (CWP) women in her community who mentoring for women - “more to be encouraged to stand for London in the margins of the outcomes document presented in the United Kingdom. The achieving gender equality by in its mission for greater believed that the return of local women need to be sat at the elections. 2018 Commonwealth Women’s to the Commonwealth Heads of three-day Commonwealth 2030. The Commonwealth representation of women democracy would help them and table not in the audience when it The session was summarized Forum. Government later the same week. Women’s Forum (CWF) saw Women’s Forum saw in legislatures and the CPA how she had mentored young comes to taking political office.” by Sarah Childs, Professor of The final session of the many Commonwealth Women international delegates from the and CWP held a joint session women in Makeni. Delegates Hon. Maria Browne, MP, Politics and Gender at Birkbeck Commonwealth Women’s For further information about the Parliamentarians speaking at the Commonwealth and globally at the CWF on ‘Women’s then heard from guest panellists Minister of Housing, Lands University and Director of the Forum saw HRH The Duchess CHOGM 2018/Commonwealth Summit forum on a wide range of issues. highlighting women’s positive Political Participation at All on their experiences. and Urban Renewal in Antigua Centre for the Study of British of Cornwall speak about the please visit www.chogm2018.org.uk. The 2018 Commonwealth political, economic and societal Levels’ in partnership with Hon. Angela Thoko Didiza, and Barbuda spoke about Politics & Public Life. problems of domestic abuse contributions and establishing mechanisms for how women and girls will be key to building sustainable and resilient societies. Key highlights included speeches Images: CPA HQ/Commonwealth Secretariat.

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IMPORTANCE OF SEPARATION OF POWERS TO ENSURE YOUTH DELEGATES HIGHLIGHT THE IMPORTANCE OF THEIR EFFECTIVE GOVERNANCE HIGHLIGHTED AT 2018 CONTRIBUTION FOR THE FUTURE OF THE COMMONWEALTH COMMONWEALTH PEOPLE’S FORUM AT THE 2018 COMMONWEALTH YOUTH FORUM

for Democratic chaired by Mark Guthrie from participant, Ryan the Pacific region. a great time here at the 2018 Legislatures. the Rule of Law Section at the Robinson Perinchief The 2018 Commonwealth Commonwealth Youth Forum and The CPA Commonwealth Secretariat. (Bermuda) during Youth Forum was opened by HRH I look forward to working with some Small Branches The CPA was a partner the General Prince Harry who said: “As I travel of the young students we’ve met Chairperson in the establishment of the Assembly around the Commonwealth in my in the future. This was the first time spoke at the Commonwealth Latimer House The Commonwealth Youth Forum Meeting of the work on behalf of The Royal Family, Bermuda was represented, so I panel session on Principles together with the brought together over 500 youth Commonwealth Youth Council it is striking to see just how different particularly enjoyed getting to know the separation of Commonwealth Secretariat, delegates to engage in planning, (CYC), which discussed and voted today’s generation of young adults everyone else” - Ryan Robinson powers alongside the CMJA, the Commonwealth capacity-building and a General on recommendations on a broad are. You are connected. You have Perinchief (Bermuda). Lady Brenda Lawyers Association and the Assembly where they finalised range of issues including: made positive use of technology “We’ve had the opportunity Hale, President of Commonwealth Legal Education their priorities on youth-led action in • Youth unemployment; to build relationships within your to meet and listen to some really the UK Supreme Association. development and elected their new • Violent extremism; communities, nations and across inspirational people from the United Court; Cheryl The Commonwealth People’s Commonwealth Youth Council. • Cyber security; the globe. You care. You want Nations to former Prime Ministers Dorall of the Forum (CPF) 2018 was held Several Commonwealth • Climate change and resilience; your nations to be cleaner, your and people who have changed the Commonwealth ahead of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association • Inclusion and equity; planet to be greener, your friends world. This is something I am going Journalists Heads of Government Meeting youth programme participants • Health; and, and neighbours to be treated fairly to remember for a very long time. In The Chairperson of the and democracy at a workshop Association; and (CHOGM) 2018 and brought joined young people at the 11th • Democracy and governance. and with respect, no matter their terms of the future and what we can Commonwealth Parliamentary session at 2018 Commonwealth former judge, Keith Hollis of the together civic voices from around Commonwealth Youth Forum All of the recommendations ethnicity, their religion, or their status. take from this, we need to work closer Association (CPA) Small People’s Forum. The CPA Commonwealth Magistrates and the world to debate key issues hosted in the United Kingdom as and outcomes which were passed You are optimistic. The complicated together and we need a stronger, Branches, Hon. Angelo Farrugia, Small Branches Chairperson Judges Association (CMJA). facing Commonwealth people. part of the 2018 Commonwealth during voting at the CYC General challenges we face – climate change, more united Commonwealth” - Speaker of the Parliament also highlighted the CPA’s role Panellists examined the role of The CPF is the single largest Heads of Government Meeting. Assembly were then included in the inequality, conflict – they do not Kieran O’Neill (Scotland). of Malta spoke about the in the establishment of the the separation of powers in the opportunity for civil society to The 2018 Commonwealth Youth Declaration by the Young People of discourage you. Rather, they inspire “One of my favourite parts of importance of the separation of Commonwealth Latimer House Commonwealth, its effectiveness engage with Commonwealth Forum was convened under the the Commonwealth and Action Plan you to persevere and effect change.” CYF was in the General Assembly, powers between the legislature, Principles on the separation in providing democratic leaders on global development theme of ’Powering our Common to be presented to Commonwealth It was also announced that where the British Overseas the executive and the judiciary of powers and the CPA’s governance and the role of issues. Future’ from 15–18 April 2018. The leaders at the CHOGM 2018 Meeting Queen Elizabeth II had appointed Territories stood up for themselves to ensure effective governance Recommended Benchmarks civil society. The session was Youth Forum’s theme, designed as taking place later in the week. Prince Harry to be the global and made a recommendation for a response to the main CHOGM The involvement of Commonwealth Youth Ambassador youth votes for every country in theme ‘Towards a Common Future’, former participants in youth in his new role as President of The the Commonwealth and seeing emphasised the potential for young programmes provided by the Queen’s Commonwealth Trust, a young people from across the people in the Commonwealth CPA Headquarters Secretariat new youth charity which will provide Commonwealth stand up for to make a tangible and lasting continued through to the elections a platform for young change- themselves” - Dominique Noralez difference whilst also encouraging to the Commonwealth Youth makers across the Commonwealth (Belize). participants to contribute Council Executive Board, where in areas such as recommendations and actions former 8th CYP participant, education, sport, towards a prosperous, secure, Elizabeth Kite from the CPA health and the sustainable and fairer future. Tonga Branch was elected environment. Participants from the CPA’s 9th to the position of Regional Some of the Commonwealth Youth Parliament Representative (Pacific Region), young delegates (CYP), Tammy Randall (Gibraltar) where she will be responsible spoke about their and Dominique Noralez (Belize) for representing young people’s experiences: joined 2018 Commonwealth Day views and interests from across “It’s been Images: Youth Forum/Commonwealth Secretariat.

112 | The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two | 113 TOWARDS A TOWARDS A COMMON FUTURE: COMMON FUTURE: CHOGM 2018 CHOGM 2018

QUEEN ELIZABETH COMMONWEALTH CHOGM 2018: CPA PHOTO GALLERY SCHOLARSHIPS TO BOOST STUDY OPPORTUNITIES ACROSS THE GLOBE

In his opening remarks to the The scholarships are being , Brunei Darussalam, in securing these educational 2018 Commonwealth Youth named after Queen Elizabeth II as Cameroon, Kenya, Malaysia, opportunities for young people Forum, and as his first act as a fitting tribute to her contribution the Maldives, Mauritius, the across all member countries. The the new Commonwealth Youth as Head of the Commonwealth, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Ambassador, HRH Prince Harry and her longstanding dedication United Kingdom. The CSFP Scholarships scheme is a announced the launch of the to education and youth. The first endowment fund, which is valuable, inclusive programme Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth managed by the ACU, will be able which will have a far-reaching Scholarships – a new scholarship Scholars will begin their to support even more scholarships impact for generations to come.” scheme enabling talented studies in 2019, coinciding from 2019 thanks to an additional The ACU were in attendance young people to study at with the 70th anniversary £5 million contribution from the throughout CHOGM 2018 week, leading universities in low and of the Commonwealth and UK government. championing the role of higher middle income countries of the the 60th anniversary of the Dr Joanna Newman, Chief education in building inclusive Commonwealth. Commonwealth Scholarship and Executive and Secretary-General societies, and representing The 150 new scholarships, Fellowship Plan (CSFP). of the ACU, said “Scholarships the concerns and interests which will be managed by the The Queen Elizabeth have a transformational impact of the ACU’s 500+ member Above: The CPA Secretary-General, Mr Above: The CPA Secretary-General met with the Above: The CPA Secretary-General met Association for Commonwealth Commonwealth Scholarships will on the lives of individuals and universities across the world. Akbar Khan met with Minister of Foreign Speaker of the Parliament of Belize, Hon. Laura with Hon. , MP, the Minister Universities (ACU), aim to be supported by an expansion also, more importantly, on Affairs for Australia, Hon. Julie Bishop ahead Tucker-Longsworth and the CEO of the Belize of Foreign Affairs of St Kitts and widen collaboration across the of the CSFP endowment fund, their wider communities and For more information visit of the CHOGM 2018 Foreign Ministers Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Patrick Andrews in the and Premier of Nevis Island, following the Commonwealth and create study which was established by societies, thanks to the skills and www.acu.ac.uk/scholarships/ Meeting at Lancaster House in London. margins of CHOGM 2018. Commonwealth Foreign Ministers Meetings. opportunities not previously Commonwealth governments knowledge gained. I am delighted commonwealth-scholarships. available. including Australia, the Bahamas, that the ACU will play a vital role Right: CPA Chairperson, Hon. Emilia Lifaka, MP (Cameroon) met with the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Hon. Gaston Browne at the UK FOREIGN SECRETARY COMMITS £4M TO DEMOCRACY IN THE Commonwealth Women’s Forum ahead COMMONWEALTH AHEAD OF CHOGM 2018 of CHOGM 2018 in London, UK Left: The CPA Headquarters The UK Foreign Secretary, societies. The programme will through a consortium led by the Association Headquarters, Secretariat filmed interviews with 2018 Rt Hon. Boris Johnson, MP focus on how institutions are Westminster Foundation for the CPA UK Branch and Commonwealth Women’s Forum announced £4 million to accountable and inclusive of Democracy, partnering with the the Commonwealth Local speakers including keynote speaker, strengthen democracy and all their citizens, and on driving Commonwealth Parliamentary Government Forum. Sunkarie Kabba-Kamara, Mayor of broaden political participation efforts to widen participation Makeni, Sierra Leone - see the video at: across 18 Commonwealth by women, minorities and other www.cpahq.org/cpahq/youtube. countries ahead of the CHOGM underrepresented groups. 2018. The two-year programme Below: The CPA Secretary-General with representatives of Below: Members of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians The new funding will support will cover Commonwealth Commonwealth Associated and Accredited Organisations including (CWP) Steering Committee also met in London, United Kingdom in work with democratic institutions developing countries across Royal Commonwealth Society, Commonwealth Forum and CMJA. the margins of the 2018 Commonwealth Women’s Forum. such as national parliaments Africa, South Asia, the Caribbean and local authorities to help and the Pacific and will be improve transparency and managed by the UK Foreign foster more stable, democratic and Commonwealth Office

Right: The UK Foreign Secretary, Rt Hon. Boris Johnson, MP addressed Parliamentarians and delegates from across the Commonwealth as he welcomed them to the 2018 Commonwealth Summit at a reception held in the Royal Gallery at the Houses of Parliament in Westminster. The Foreign Secretary highlighted the importance of engaging across the Commonwealth at this and future CHOGMs and the success of the first Commonwealth Parliamentarians Forum held in the UK in February. The event was hosted by the CPA UK Branch and the UK Parliament. Image: CPA UK Branch. Images: CPA Headquarters Secretariat.

114 | The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two | 115 CHOGM 2018 CHOGM 2018 OUTCOMES: A VIEW OUTCOMES: A VIEW FROM INDIA FROM INDIA

trillion in 2015 and is projected to CHOGM 2018 OUTCOMES: A VIEW FROM INDIA surpass USD $1 trillion by 2020. To further this, the Commonwealth Business Forum discussed a wide range of issues to increase intra-Commonwealth trade and reduce the cost of doing business between member countries. The meeting focused on providing better access to modern financial services, harnessing technology and The Commonwealth Heads of 4. A more prosperous future. 2.4 billion, it is imperative that innovation for easing the pathway Government Meeting (CHOGM) Considering that 31 out of the the Commonwealth focuses for business along with attracting has proved to be a time-tested 53 Commonwealth countries are on bringing greater economic inward investment. platform where both advanced small states, with a population of prosperity for the people The future of the Commonwealth economies and developing under 1.5 million, India and the UK through an enhanced trade and depends on its one billion young countries come together to build, have jointly committed to building investment relationship. It is to people. One in three young people renew, and redefine links with cybersecurity capacity and helping be noted here that 25 countries aged between 15 and 29, which is the group’s 53-member states the smaller member states in of the Commonwealth are small approximately 640 million people, spanning across six continents. implementing the global Trade island developing states (SIDS). live in Commonwealth countries. The The inaugural Commonwealth Facilitation Agreement (TFA), Therefore, considerable energy Commonwealth forums on People, Image: CHOGM 2018/Commonwealth Secretariat Parliamentarians’ Forum in which aims to streamline customs should be channeled towards Women and Youth are striving movement in the United States is on the verge of becoming Above: The Prime Minister of Hon. Rajiv London, UK from 26 February procedures, cut red tape at the the promotion of sustainable towards gender equality, women’s and the African National Congress the largest economy in the India, Narendra Modi (far left) Pratap Rudy, to 1 March 2018 organised by border, and lower trade costs by development and maritime empowerment, employment in its early years of struggle against Commonwealth. India has together with Commonwealth is a Member the CPA UK Branch and the UK providing necessary technical security, which pose existential opportunities, and building a cross- apartheid in South Africa. demonstrated its capacity to leaders from 53 countries MP Parliament was a precursor to the assistance. Commonwealth challenges to many of these small cultural network, especially among Since the London Declaration grow even during adversity and is gather at Windsor Castle for the of Lok Sabha in the main CHOGM 2018 which was leaders have agreed to lend and island states. the youth for achieving sustainable of 1949, which established the committed to making this forum CHOGM 2018 meetings. India Parliament also attended by the Honorable their support to advancing WTO Prime Minister of India, development as pursued through the modern Commonwealth, India that spans across the globe, evolve and Chairman of Prime Minister of India, Hon. negotiations and the Doha Round Narendra Modi during the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable has held a pivotal position in this and improve in the coming years. the Parliamentary Narendra Modi in April 2018. Agenda (or Doha Development CHOGM 2018 not only stressed Development Goals (SDGs). association of 53 independent India, the largest democracy Commonwealth’s population. The I had the privilege to lead the Agenda) in particular. the need to focus on providing sovereign states. As a globally in the world has a natural Prime Minister’s participation at this Standing Committee delegation to the Commonwealth As part of a pledge for developmental assistance to small India’s growing relevance reckoning power, India recognizes ambition to reinforce the strategic year’s CHOGM 2018 and India’s on Water Resources. Parliamentarians’ Forum in clean and sustainable energy, island states but also announced The Commonwealth is one of the the Commonwealth as one of partnerships, based on shared growing participation has renewed He has served as a February on behalf of the Indian Indian Prime Minister Narendra the doubling of India’s contribution oldest institutions that provided the most valuable forums and the values, common law and institutions. the interest in the Commonwealth Minister for Skills Parliament as nominated by the Modi and French President to the Commonwealth fund for India with a view of the world, Commonwealth also has much to India is not a big brother but a forum. The Commonwealth is Honorable Speaker of Lok Sabha, Francois Hollande launched technical cooperation and capacity decades before India achieved gain from India’s engagement. partner in the development of serving as an effective multilateral Development and Smt. Sumitra Mahajan. the International Solar Alliance building of these small states and independence. India shares India, the largest member the Commonwealth. Given our forum that can bridge the gap Entrepreneurship in Several topics were discussed (ISA) at the 2015 UN Climate small island developing states that the experience and struggle of country with 55% of the focus on developing countries between the developing and Prime Minister Modi’s during the twelve sessions Change Conference in Paris. The are part of the Commonwealth. independence from the colonial rule Commonwealth’s 2.4 billion in Africa and the Caribbean, the developed members. government. He has which were spread over four ISA is an initiative that works for The Commonwealth forums with other independent countries. population and 26% of its internal Commonwealth provides the CHOGM 2018 provided days. Climate change; the efficient usage of solar energy on Business, People, Youth 2018 marks a historic year as trade is engaging actively with ideal platform for increasing trade an important opportunity to served five terms in uncertain international situation by reducing the dependence on and Women offer an excellent the world commemorates 125 the Commonwealth’s members and investment links along with address some of the major Parliament including due to protectionist trends; the fossil fuels. Many Commonwealth opportunity for a wider debate years of Mahatma Gandhi’s arrival especially the small and Island fostering international relations. challenges faced by the both in the Rajya WTO’s developmental agenda; countries are members of the on some of the key issues and in South Africa. His eviction from states by expanding trade ties The Prime Minister has world and in particular, for the Sabha and Lok Sabha. cybersecurity; mounting threats International Solar Alliance. This challenges facing the member a train’s whites-only compartment and economic assistance and by reaffirmed that India, as a Commonwealth, both the major of international terrorism; and the is a major milestone to address countries. not only initiated Mahatma showcasing its diplomatic and committed member of the economies and developing He has had many public health crisis especially in the climate change goals as well Half of the top 20 global Gandhi’s contemplation of racial organizational capabilities. Commonwealth, will work closely countries came together to party roles including developing countries were some of as the Sustainable Development emerging cities and UN discrimination but also laid the The Prime Minister of India, with other Commonwealth unite under the summit’s official National General the major challenges deliberated Goals (SDGs). However, the peacekeeping contributions foundation for the beginning of his Narendra Modi has reiterated member-states and other theme ‘Towards a Common Secretary and he is a upon during the meeting. majority of countries are firmly of are from the Commonwealth. philosophy of non-violent protest India’s focus on small island partner organizations to address Future’. The Commonwealth The Commonwealth theme for the opinion that the developed The combined GDP of - the Satyagraha movement developing nations of the the shared global challenges. meeting has envisaged creating qualified pilot - flying 2018 was ‘Towards a Common countries should play a major role Commonwealth countries was against the discrimination and Commonwealth and emphasized India stands committed to a more sustainable, prosperous, fighter aircraft in Future’ and the discussion was in combating climate change to estimated to be USD $10.4 oppressive colonial rule both in that the assistance to these states reinvigorating the Commonwealth, secure and fairer future for all the Indian Air Force, around the general theme of: ensure the equity and growth of trillion in 2017 and is predicted South Africa and India. This form should be “demand-driven, rather especially ensuring its enhanced Commonwealth citizens by taking supersonic jets and 1. A more sustainable future developing countries. to reach USD $13 trillion by of action later became one of the than donor-driven.” engagement with the small and the necessary steps and collective 2. A fairer future For the combined 2020. Intra-Commonwealth trade great political tools of the 20th India, one of the significant vulnerable states and to the action. passenger airplanes. 3. A more secure future Commonwealth population of was estimated to be USD $0.5 century, influencing the civil rights contributors to the Commonwealth youth, who make up 60% of the

116 | The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two | 117 HOSTING THE HOSTING THE COMMONWEALTH COMMONWEALTH GAMES GOLD GAMES GOLD COAST 2018 COAST 2018

Canada, Hong Kong, Pakistan, HOSTING THE COMMONWEALTH GAMES Singapore, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea. Early feedback from a survey of participants indicates more GOLD COAST 2018: THE QUEENSLAND than 80% of attendees identified business opportunities through participation in the Trade 2018 GOVERNMENT MINISTER’S VIEW program, while more than 85% said they had made new contacts or strengthened existing networks. Impressively, nearly The Gold Coast 2018 Games. As a direct result of the around 113 million page-views, of 80% said they had improved Commonwealth Games was the Games we also leveraged funding which 68 million were unique. Our capability to expand their single most significant event to upgrade roads, duplicate train social media channels had around business, which is a fantastic Queensland has ever hosted. I’m lines and build a new light rail 733,600 followers and more than result for all involved. Over the proud to say I was a Member of system on the Gold Coast. 108.3 million impressions. next decade, we expect an extra Parliament and a representative The construction and Meanwhile, Channel 7’s live $488 million in foreign direct in Cabinet at the time we chose upgrades to 11 venues across broadcast app as well as the investment and exports as a to bid for the Games and was the the state has given Queensland Official GC2018 app were the two result of the Games. Minister responsible for delivering and the Gold Coast everything most downloaded applications in However, what can’t be the state’s largest sporting event. we need to compete for more early April. The Official GC2018 measured is the way the Across eleven days of sport, major events. We are already app was downloaded more than Commonwealth Games has understanding and build Embracing 2018 Legacy Program Above: The Carrara Stadium Hon. Kate Jones, we witnessed some fantastic in the market, meeting with 416,000 times. enriched our communities. Since relationships with Aboriginal and is ensuring lasting benefits continue (known commercially as MP is the Minister sporting action as Australia sports administrators about Everyone knows Queensland day one, we’ve been committed Torres Strait Islander communities to be realised from the Gold Coast Metricon Stadium) is a sporting for Innovation, dominated the medal tally to new opportunities for the Coast. is beautiful one day and perfect to ensuring Aboriginal and Torres under the Reconciliation in 2018 Commonwealth Games. venue on the Gold Coast in claim 80 gold to England’s 45. Days after the Games ended, the next. We are leveraging the Strait Islander people benefit from Queensland Schools program. The program aimed to build active, Queensland, Australia and was Tourism Industry We saw the Australian women I attended SportAccord in unrivalled exposure we received the Commonwealth Games. The The local Yugambeh elders engaged and inclusive communities one of the main venues for the Development and beat the world record in the Thailand – the world’s largest as a result of the Games to bring 2018 Commonwealth Games will wanted us to make the most of the by motivating people to move more, 2018 Commonwealth Games. the Commonwealth 4x100m swimming, we witnessed sporting events conference – to more visitors to our state. This is be the first Games to incorporate opportunity to generate exposure value their health, and be active for Games in the Brisbane young gun Ariarne Titmus speak about the success of the working. Our projections show that a Reconciliation Action Plan for the local Indigenous language life. From fitness in local parks and that will set a new benchmark for dominate the women’s freestyle Games and what this means for over the next nine years, around (RAP) to use the largest event in and culture. That’s how our Games halls and grass roots clubs to elite the Commonwealth Games and all Queensland and had the privilege of watching Queensland moving forward. half a million extra visitors will touch Queensland’s history to close the mascot came to be named ‘Borobi’ sporting bodies, our legacy initiatives multi-sport events in the future. Government. five countries win their first In addition to the infrastructure down in Queensland thanks to the gap on Indigenous disadvantage – the Yugambeh name for ‘koala’. are supporting Queenslanders from These include an equal Kate oversaw the Commonwealth Games medals. we put in place, we supported Commonwealth Games. and deliver real and meaningful The Yugambeh culture was also all walks of life and abilities to find number of men’s and women’s successful delivery But the great thing about more than 30,000 jobs and On top of our strategy to use reconciliation. That’s why we set a integrated into our Commonwealth ways to be physically active and medals, a fully integrated para- sport is that it brings us together trained 15,000 volunteers to the Games to strengthen our target and put together a strategy to Games arts and culture program, embrace a healthy lifestyle. sport program, five countries of the Gold Coast when times are tough. We saw participate during the event. tourism sector, trade has also award millions of dollars in contracts Festival 2018. The largest festival A once-in-a-generation medalling for the first time, nine 2018 Commonwealth Jamaican sprinter Yohan Blake That’s 45,000 people trained been a focus for the Queensland to Indigenous businesses. ever to be staged in this state was opportunity was made available to world records, 83 Commonwealth Games. She has stumble in the 100m finals to to host major events - an entire Government. Through our Trade As a result, close to $8 million designed to leave a strong legacy Queensland sport and community Games records, a Reconciliation previously served take bronze behind South Africa’s industry kick-started by the 2018 program we held more than in contracts resulted from the for Queenslanders. More than 1.1 organisations through the gifting Action Plan to empower the First Akani Simbine and Henricho Commonwealth Games. 30 events throughout Queensland RAP, along with 200 jobs and million spectators in total enjoyed of GC2018 Sports Assets post Nations people, the longest ever as Minister for Bruintjies, and we witnessed a During the Games, around and brought some of the world’s hundreds of training positions. Festival 2018 across the state. Games, strengthening their capability Queen’s Relay to leverage Education and for heart-warming outpour of support 1.1 million people spent $870 leading investors and business The contributions by Aboriginal And out of the 3,893 performers and capacity to deliver better exposure of the Gold Coast as Environment and for Scottish runner Callum million here in Queensland. We identities to our state to mentor and Torres Strait Islander people who took part in Festival 2018, programs for all Queenslanders. a destination, and the first time Natural Resources in Hawkins who collapsed during sold more than 1.2 million tickets and work with locals. were instrumental in the success more than 2,600 – 65% - were Under the Sports Assets Legacy Beach Volleyball was featured in a the men’s marathon. These are – that’s double the population of More than 2,500 people of GC2018, from the hard- Queenslanders. For these people, Program, more than 20,000 pieces Commonwealth Games. previous Queensland the moments sports fans will the Gold Coast. participated in Commonwealth working volunteers, unforgettable a chance to perform in the of sports equipment from GC2018 The Queensland Government is Governments. She remember most. While many sports fans Games trade and investment Indigenous elements of the largest arts and culture festival in were allocated across the state, committed to investing in our major was elected to But the challenge for the were visiting Queensland, even events. We attracted 38 Opening Ceremony, through to the Queensland’s history was a once- benefitting all Queenslanders, events sector and making it as easy the Queensland government, indeed for all more were watching from international delegations from GC2018 medal design and the in-a-lifetime opportunity. leading to healthier lifestyles. as possible to host high-quality governments faced with the home - around 1.5 billion people 26 countries to the events and Queen’s Baton that was celebrated And already we’ve heard But when we first set out sporting events in Queensland. Our Parliament in 2015, quandary of whether to host a across the globe tuned in to the activities during the Games as a on many shores across the globe. some great feedback from to host the Commonwealth message to the people of the world having previously major event like the Games, was 2018 Commonwealth Games. result of a year-long international Queensland schools also Queenslanders who have already Games we wanted to prove that is simple. We have the destination, served between 2006 ensuring our investment paid off In Australia, close to 16 million engagement campaign off the shared in $200,000 worth been booked for additional acts Queensland is a world leader when we have the infrastructure. And we and 2012. for the people of Queensland. viewers tuned in to the Games as back of the Queen’s Baton Relay. of grants to fund classes, thanks to the exposure they it comes to major events. As a have the runs on the board when We invested around $1.5 billion Channel 7 dominated the ratings. We had delegates join us from programs and initiatives that received during the Games. result, we made legacy our focus it comes to hosting major sporting to deliver the Commonwealth The GC2018 website attracted countries including England, India, promoted reconciliation, cultural The Queensland Government’s and recorded a number of ‘firsts’ events.

118 | The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two | 119 THE MALALA THE MALALA DEBATE DEBATE

THE MALALA DEBATE: A VIEW FROM PAKISTAN

Meraj Hamayun Let it be clear from the outset she was violently thrown into a “It was her Khan, MPA is a that I do not want to get into the deep abyss of physical pain and controversy of what, why and emotional breakdown. simplicity that Member of the Legislature how of the Malala saga. I write After her ordeal, though, caught the and Chairperson of the about her because for me she is Malala did not break down and Women’s Parliamentary a symbol of innocence, grit and go into a depression, nor did she attention of the Caucus in the Khyber determination, love and sacrifice. hide herself in her home as a international media A happy, innocent child, with recluse bewailing her deep facial Pakhtunkhwa Assembly wishes and hopes, spending scars and disfigurement and the and human rights in Pakistan. Starting her her days with family and friends distortion of her personality. No organisations and Image editorial credit: Karl_Sonnenberg/Shutterstock.com political career in 1996 in pursuit of knowledge to one heard her grumble, complain their united efforts by joining the newly learn and become a better and curse the perpetrators of the defeated by adversity and One painful incident matured other young girls and students Above: A protester at the human being in service of Allah crime. She recovered gradually swept her up into unpredictable challenges even her and saddled her with serious in impoverished communities Women’s March 2017 in Los created Tehrik i Insaf as the and humanity for that is what and steadfastly she pursued her giving up one’s home and all responsibilities meant for especially those in Pakistan. Angeles, USA holds up a sign provincial president of its education is all about. goal of learning. a whirlpool of that is familiar. At that stage experienced adults. She became Born on 12 July 1997, that says; “If one man can women’s wing, she later It is a process of deepening Her new surroundings with an good wishes and in life when a person is forced a woman, a teacher, a student, Malala’s name now defines destroy everything, why can’t joined the Qaumi Watan the senses and polishing a unfamiliar culture, language and to abandon all that one lives a role model, a hero and an education, child protection one girl change it.” a quote by person’s talents. It is the path people did not scare her. With universal acclaim. for, especially we semi urban international icon of courage. and women’s empowerment, Malala Yousafzai. Party and was elected on leading to the understanding typical young Pakhtun valour and Her message to maids, we cannot ever dream of This status may be considered three critical goals which reserved seats for women. of Allah’s creations in every optimism she rebounded with severing our relationship with enviable by some but for her Pakistan’s development Elected as the Chairperson form and our own place in this renewed vigour to understand all the youth is to an environment that we are tender age, her physical, mental planners must adopt and pursue of the Women’s complex universe, and the tool and integrate into her new be ready for all born into. and emotional state it was an wholeheartedly. of learning is the Book which environment but preserving The air, the land, the additional burden on her weak Education is a basic Parliamentary Caucus in commences with the order, “Read her own identity at the same eventualities and mountains and the rivers are shoulders and a formidable right of every child and the about the future of their children. May 2016, since then she in the name of Allah!” time. It was her simplicity that not be defeated woven tightly into the core of our challenge to face. All eyes were government ensured access to They are denied education for has worked tirelessly to Malala Yousafzai had set caught the attention of the by adversity and existence, our very being. Malala on her; there were whispers and all by establishing schools with multiple reasons but in recent make it an effective forum. out on this journey in search of international media and human did not shriek when her ‘being’ there were strange allegations proper facilities and well trained years, it has been more due to knowledge and mental training rights organisations and their unpredictable was torn apart and she was being mixed with laudatory comments teachers. However, parents will the physical turbulence caused Known for her innovative to prepare herself to navigate united efforts swept her up into reduced to a shadow of her and encouraging remarks. refuse to hand over their children by the war on terror. Malala is social projects for women the world around her, a world a whirlpool of good wishes and challenges even former self. She held on tightly She was insouciant to all to institutions if there is no the emblem of a Pakistan that and children, she is the which was getting more and universal acclaim. giving up one’s to her dream and her hopes and as she picked up the torn security within the institutions or has proved its resilience on founder of the NGO, De more complex and violent with Her message to all the it is no surprise that she was threads of her life and bravely on the routes leading to them. several fronts and is well on its each passing day. This was not youth is to be ready for all home and all that is resurrected into a form with more forged ahead to tackle her new Girls especially are made the way to development in all sectors Laas Gul. to be. Instead of enlightenment eventualities and not be familiar.” force as well as charm. responsibility as a role model for scapegoats when parents decide despite hardships.

120 | The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two | 121 TACKLING MODERN TACKLING MODERN SLAVERY IN THE SLAVERY IN THE COMMONWEALTH COMMONWEALTH

Through engaging with the TACKLING MODERN SLAVERY IN THE project, Parliamentarians from Nigeria have begun the process of reviewing and strengthening laws. Hon. Samuel Okon Ikon, COMMONWEALTH MNA - who attended both the Africa Regional Workshop and the Legislative Drafting Seminar at Westminster - recently presented a successful motion to the House of Representatives in Nigeria to investigate cases of modern slavery, human trafficking, domestic servitude and forced During the week of the overseen by the UK Branch of the and exploitation in the production labour involving Nigerians at Commonwealth Heads of Commonwealth Parliamentary process of goods. home and abroad and to proffer Government Meeting (CHOGM), Association (CPA UK). The As the lead within the solutions. There have been similar many announcements and reports project aims to contribute to opposition team, I was responsible stories coming out of Pakistan and were released on everything the global effort to eradicate for ensuring that the Bill met Ghana where Parliamentarians from the Queen’s successor to modern slavery-related crimes our high standards and during are leading the fight for effective Online Portal and and assistance as well as a Looking ahead advancements in climate innovation. by strengthening legislation the process I learned of many oversight and scrutiny. e-Handbook legislative landscape, which gives With the Modern Slavery Project One you may have missed was the and parliamentary scrutiny and examples of slavery that were Recognising that the UK’s Building on this network of an overview of current global now entering its second phase, announcement of a new United oversight in the Commonwealth. hidden or simply not tackled. Modern Slavery Act is by no motivated Parliamentarians, legislation. I would encourage there is huge potential for it to Kingdom package of support The project, which has Despite consensus on many areas, means a finished article, the something I’ve been particularly you to join the community at reach even further across the Rt Hon. David which will help eradicate modern recently been granted funding the opposition put forward a large project has also presented excited about is the recent www.msproject-portal.com. Commonwealth. There are plans Hanson, MP is a slavery, human trafficking and child for a second phase as part of number of amendments to try areas in which we – as UK launch of the Modern Slavery Another exciting resource as to build on relationships with exploitation in the Commonwealth. the announced package of and tighten rules around supply Parliamentarians – can Project Online Portal. This is a part of the project is an e-Handbook. Parliamentarians and officials Member of the UK The Commonwealth is support, has engaged with over chains and domestic servitude improve our laws. At a recent secure member-only platform for The e-Handbook is an innovative in Malawi, Namibia, Kenya, House of Commons home to 2.4 billion citizens and 70 Parliamentarians and officials in particular. A number of our CHOGM side event, we heard Commonwealth Parliamentarians and interactive tool for supporting Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. and has represented represents a diverse global from 14 countries including amendments were not accepted from Senator Linda Reynolds and officials to share good Commonwealth Parliamentarians There will be further regional the constituency community. There are many Ghana, Uganda, Nigeria and showing that there is still so much from Australia, another practice and exchange ideas with and officials to legislate effectively workshops and seminars as well challenges this family of nations Pakistan. As Chair of the project, more for us to do. This is an issue Parliamentarian who has regards to combatting modern against modern slavery-related as bilateral work to help increase of Delyn in North face, including modern slavery, I have been privileged to share that is constantly evolving and been actively involved in the slavery-related crimes. The portal crimes. With over 70 expert the knowledge and capacity of Wales since 1992. human trafficking and forced some of my experiences from needing the scrutiny of Parliament. project. She raised the issue of uses technology to advance contributors to the e-Handbook, Commonwealth Parliamentarians He has served as a labour. Recently, the scale of this working on and scrutinising the ‘orphanage trafficking’ which will communication between representing civil society, parliament, and bring an end to a crime many Government Minister problem has become increasingly UK’s response to modern slavery, Modern Slavery Project soon be included in Australian international parliamentary the judiciary and law enforcement, of us believed was left behind in evident. We have witnessed but have also gained insights Phase I of CPA UK’s Modern legislation but is currently not colleagues. It includes a this is a comprehensive, insightful the 19th century. for the , Nigerians trafficked into slavery and new perspectives from other Slavery Project included addressed directly in UK law. database of experts working and practical guide through I particularly look forward Justice and Northern through Libya; children forced into Commonwealth countries that are two regional workshops for across the Commonwealth understanding and legislating to engaging with my Ireland and as a the fishing industry in Ghana; tech seeking to tackle these issues. Parliamentarians and officials who are available to give advice against these heinous crimes. Commonwealth parliamentary Shadow Minister industries using debt bondage from Africa and Asia-Pacific. colleagues and hearing what to entrap people in Malaysia; and Parliamentary scrutiny This was an opportunity to they are doing to address this for Foreign and here in the UK modern slavery has I first became interested in the raise awareness and begin global scourge. Drawing on this Commonwealth been exposed in cannabis farms, campaign to end modern slavery the discussion about what the unique network is a valuable Affairs. He is a in nail bars and in car washes. It is following my appointment to the challenges and opportunities tool for sharing good practice Member of the a crime that is without borders and Shadow Home Office team. The are in addressing these crimes. approaches and will assist us is indiscriminate of race, religion Modern Slavery Bill, introduced Parliamentarians and legislative as representatives to protect Intelligence and or wealth. in 2014 in the UK Houses of drafters were then invited to our constituents and promote Security Committee of Parliament, received cross-party Westminster for an intensive the human dignity of our fellow Parliament and of the A Commonwealth support and many Members of seminar on effective and robust citizens. House of Commons commitment Parliament worked tirelessly legislation. While most countries There is a growing commitment to implement it. The legislation have legislation that addresses For more information about CPA Justice Select within the Commonwealth to take consolidated and simplified modern slavery-related crimes UK’s Modern Slavery Project including Committee. action to help victims of modern existing laws in the UK on slavery in some form, this was an how you can access the Online slavery-related crimes and bring and trafficking and also enforced opportunity to explore where Portal and e-Handbook, contact perpetrators to justice. This transparency in the supply chains there might be gaps and how [email protected]. growing commitment is reflected of businesses in an effort to legislation could be consolidated For further information visit www. in the Modern Slavery Project, specifically combat forced labour and strengthened. uk-cpa.org.uk/modernslavery.

122 | The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two | 123 POWER AND PRIVILEGE POWER AND PRIVILEGE ON JUDICIAL MATTERS IN ON JUDICIAL MATTERS IN THE INDIA PARLIAMENT THE INDIA PARLIAMENT

“Such powers POWER AND PRIVILEGE ON JUDICIAL as Parliament possesses under MATTERS IN THE INDIA PARLIAMENT the Constitution are immense and they fulfil the role which a sovereign legislature does in any other independent country. The width and depth of its powers becomes evident on an analysis V. K. Babu Prakash “The parliamentary system relationship between the Union present-day Indian polity and the of the extent of is Secretary of the of work requires not only stout Executive and Parliament. The Constitutional limitations on its jurisdiction it has Kerala Legislative opposition, not only forcible Head of State is the President of sovereign authority are therefore, expression of opinions and India, acting on the aid and advice to be understood with important under the scheme Assembly in India and views, but an essential basis of the Union Council of Ministers qualifications. of the distribution removal of such a Judge. Also, act in their respective spheres of Above: The Parliament of India. CPA Kerala Branch of co-operation between the and a number of States that have Such powers as Parliament matters which are sub-judice jurisdiction and also they do not Secretary. three constitutional pillars such basic provisions, parallel to those possesses under the Constitution of powers, its cannot be discussed in Parliament. act in defiance of the Constitution. as parliament, executive and of the Union in respect of the are immense and they fulfil the relationship vis-a- Article 122 provides that the The Supreme Court also judiciary, not in regard to any Executive and Legislature of each role which a sovereign legislature judiciary too cannot question the guards, protects and enforces the absolute rigidity, the functions of particular matter, but the whole State. For preserving the Rule does in any other independent vis the judiciary, validity of any proceedings of fundamental rights guaranteed the three organs of State, viz. the basis of approach is after all a of Law, there is an independent country. The width and depth the executive, the parliament on the grounds of any to the citizens by the Constitution. legislature, the judiciary and the co-operative basis to achieve the judiciary and a civil service. of its powers becomes evident alleged irregularity of procedure. The Supreme Court has indeed executive, have been sufficiently constitutional goals, and in so far The Parliament of India is not a on an analysis of the extent State legislatures The Constitution also accords declared judicial review to be demarcated. Both parliament and as we succeed in doing that, we sovereign body with uncontrolled of jurisdiction it has under the and other an important place to the judiciary, one of the basic structures of State legislatures are sovereign succeed in laying the foundation and unlimited powers in the scheme of the distribution of with the Supreme Court at the the Constitution which is to be within the limits assigned to of parliamentary democracy same sense as that of the British powers, its relationship vis-a-vis authorities under apex of the judicial system. The regarded as sacrosanct. Thus, as them by the Constitution. The firmly.” - Jawaharlal Nehru - the Parliament. It functions within the the judiciary, the executive, the the Constitution.” Supreme Court, in addition to per the Constitutional Scheme, supremacy of the legislature first Prime Minister of India. bounds of a written Constitution. State legislatures and other being the final court of appeal, has both parliament and the judiciary under a written Constitution, as Its legislative power is hedged in authorities under the Constitution. exclusive original jurisdiction in are supreme in their respective observed by the Supreme Court, The Constitution of India, by limitations in a two-fold manner, However, the focus in this disputes between the Union and spheres. is only within what is in its power, republican and federal in structure, by the distribution of powers paper confirms the areas where the States, and between two or Various constitutional but what is within its power and embodies the salient features between the Union and the States the parliamentary power extends more States inter se. provisions do not leave any scope what is not, when any specific Act of the Parliamentary system. It and by the incorporation of a code in the matter of sub-judice or The Supreme Court is the for confrontation between the is challenged, it is for the courts provides for a Parliament for the of justiciable fundamental rights in judicial matters. the judiciary, both are under ultimate arbiter in all matters two important organs of the State. to say.1 Union consisting of the President the Constitution. constitutional obligation not to involving the interpretation of the Indeed, the harmonization of The scope of judicial review and the two houses, namely, the There is also provision for Parliament and the Judiciary encroach upon each other’s Constitution. It has also extensive the principles of parliamentary is limited to determine whether Rajya Sabha (Council of States) judicial review which means that Parliament, the executive and the jurisdiction. jurisdiction for the enforcement sovereignty and judicial review the legislation impugned falls and the Lok Sabha (House of the all laws passed by Parliament judiciary are the three main pillars Article 121 of the Indian of fundamental rights and an is a unique feature of India’s within the periphery of the power People), in which Lok Sabha has and State assemblies must be of the Indian democratic edifice. Constitution provides that the advisory jurisdiction on any Constitution. conferred and whether it is in supremacy in financial matters. in conformity with the provisions The Constitution of India defines conduct of a Judge of the question of law or fact referred contravention of the fundamental There is a Union Executive, of the Constitution and liable to powers, delimits jurisdictions and Supreme Court of India or the to it by the President. The power Relationship between rights guaranteed by the drawn from both of the Houses be tested for constitutionality demarcates the responsibilities of High Court of a State cannot be of judicial review conferred upon Parliament and the Courts Constitution or of any mandatory of Parliament and collectively by an independent judiciary. each organ. discussed in parliament except the Supreme Court and the State While the Constitution has provision of the Constitution. The responsible to the Lok Sabha, Nevertheless, Parliament As regards the relationship upon a motion, for presenting High Courts ensures that both not recognized the doctrine courts are concerned only with ensuring thereby an intimate occupies a pivotal position in the between parliament and to the President, requesting the the legislature and the executive of separation of powers in its interpreting the law and are not to

124 | The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two | 125 POWER AND PRIVILEGE POWER AND PRIVILEGE ON JUDICIAL MATTERS IN ON JUDICIAL MATTERS IN THE INDIA PARLIAMENT THE INDIA PARLIAMENT

“Nevertheless, parliamentary democracy is the only forum where people can voice their hopes and aspirations in a representative manner. If the three sublime institutions of the Constitution are functioning within necessary the latter must give consideration of a court of law or hopes and aspirations in a their sphere, way to the former. court martial. It would mean as representative manner. If the never interfering 2. The rule of sub-judice has follows: three sublime institutions of the no application in privilege a) In criminal cases, from the Constitution are functioning within or encroaching matters. date of framing court charge till their sphere, never interfering upon the area 3. The rule of sub-judice does the judgment. or encroaching upon the area not apply to legislation. b) In a court martial, from the or jurisdiction of the other, then or jurisdiction of 4. The rule of sub-judice shall date of charge preferred till the democracy would achieve its the other, then apply to proceedings before charge is confirmed. goals in a commendable manner. civil and criminal courts and c) In a civil case, from the date If it encroaches upon the area or democracy would courts martial in any part of of framing issue till the judgment. jurisdiction of the other to establish Above: The High Court in provisions of the Constitution. Parliament’s power and that a matter is not sub­judice until achieve its goals India and not ordinarily to d) In a writ petition, from the its supremacy, then chaos would Mumbai is one of oldest High The validity of any proceedings privilege on sub-judice legal proceedings have actually other quasi-judicial bodies date of admission till order. be the ultimate result. It will only Courts of India. in either house of parliament or matters started. in a commendable such as tribunals etc. which e) In injunction petition, from tend to destroy the democratic any State legislature cannot be It is the absolute privilege of The question of whether a manner. If it are generally fact finding the date of petition till order. principles enshrined in the enter upon a discussion as to what questioned before a court of law the legislatures and Members particular matter is sub-judice, bodies. f) In appeals, from the date of Constitution. It eventually destroys the law should be.2 on the grounds of any alleged to discuss and deliberate upon is decided by the Speaker on encroaches 5. The rule of sub-judice applies the appeal till the judgment. the Constitution. It is worthwhile Further, under Article 368 irregularity of procedures.4 all matters pertaining to the the merits of each case. Under upon the area or to questions, statements, to remember the wise words of of the Constitution, parliament The courts have no jurisdiction governance of the country and its the parliamentary practices and motions, resolutions and Conclusion Jesus Christ which reminds us has been empowered to amend to issue writs, directions or orders people. Freedom of speech on the procedures, any matter which jurisdiction of the other debates (excluding The Parliament of India, being of the separation of powers in a the Constitution by way of relating to a matter in respect of floor of the house is the essence is under adjudication by a court other to establish motions in respect of leave the political nerve-centre of the poetic manner. “Render to Caesar addition, variation or repeal of what is done in the house or of parliamentary democracy. of law having jurisdiction in any to introduce Bills, to take country, plays a predominant the things that are Caesar’s, and to any provisions according to the which affects the internal affairs of Certain restrictions on this part of India cannot be raised in its supremacy, a Bill into consideration, to role in keeping the system of God the things that are God’s.” procedure laid down therein. But, the house. Similarly, the presiding freedom have, to a limited degree, the house in any form, such as then chaos would refer a Bill to a Select/Joint governance vibrant. It is in this this Constituent power is subject officer is also not subject to the been self-imposed. One such questions, adjournment motions, Committee, to circulate a Bill supreme representative institution References: to the ‘doctrine of basic structure jurisdiction of any court for failure restriction is that the discussion resolutions and cut-motions. be the ultimate for eliciting opinion thereof, to that the resilience of today’s polity 1 R.C. Cooper Vs. Union of lndia of the Constitution’ as propounded to exercise his/her power to on matters pending adjudication At the Conference of result.” pass a Bill). and concern for people’s welfare, (AIR 1970 Supreme Court 1318). by the Supreme Court in its regulate the proceedings of the before courts of law should Presiding Officers held in New 6. The rule of sub-judice applies commitment to democracy, rule 2 Purushothaman Govindji Italia judgement ‘Kesavananda Bharati house. be avoided on the floor of the Delhi in 1967, a Committee was only in regard to the specific of law, political unity and national Vs. B.M. Desai (AIR 1956 Supreme Sripadagalvaru Vs. State of Kerala’ The Constitution guarantees house, so that the courts function constituted to examine inter alia issues before a court. integration are nurtured. Court 20). which has been reiterated in a immunity from proceedings in any uninfluenced by anything said as to the exact scope of the rule 7. In the case of linked matters, In Winston Churchill’s wise 3 Kesavananda Bharati number of subsequent cases.3 court in respect of ‘anything’ said outside the ambit of trial in dealing of sub-judice, namely, whether a useful to the Presiding Officers parts of which are sub-judice observation that parliamentary Sripadagalvaru Vs. State of Kerala (AIR in the house or any Committee with such matters. matter while under adjudication if some guidelines were framed and part are not sub-judice, democracy may be a bad form of 1973 Supreme Court- 1961). Can the courts enquire thereof and ‘anything’ has While applying the restrictions by a court of law, should not be and they formulated the following debate can be allowed on the governance, for other forms are 4 M.S.M. Sharma Vs. Shri Krishna into the proceedings of been held to be equivalent to regarding the rule of sub-judice, it brought before the house by guidelines: matters which are not sub- worse than it, may be true to a Sinha (AIR 1960 Supreme Court parliament? ‘everything’.5 has to be ensured that the primary a motion or otherwise (except 1. Freedom of speech is a judice. certain extent. 1186). The parliament and the State right of freedom of speech is not by means of a Bill) in relation to primary right, whereas, the rule The rule of sub-judice has Nevertheless, parliamentary 5 Tej Kiran Jain Vs. N. Sanjiva legislatures can regulate their unduly impaired to the prejudice parliamentary proceedings. The of sub-judice is a self-imposed application only during the period democracy is the only forum Reddy (AIR 1970 Supreme Court own procedures subject to the of the legislature. It has been held Committee felt that it would be restriction; so wherever it is when the matter is under active where people can voice their 1573).

126 | The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two | 127 SELF-ASSESSMENT AGAINST SELF-ASSESSMENT AGAINST THE CPA’S RECOMMENDED THE CPA’S RECOMMENDED BENCHMARKS FOR BENCHMARKS FOR DEMOCRATIC LEGISLATURES DEMOCRATIC LEGISLATURES SELF-ASSESSMENT AGAINST THE CPA’S RECOMMENDED “Parliaments within Australia BENCHMARKS FOR DEMOCRATIC LEGISLATURES: A are responsible for their REPORT FROM THE procedural and democratic standards. Parliaments within Australia are responsible for a number of Petitions, Matters of Public responsible for their procedural functions which overlap and Interest, Private Members’ Benchmarking and democratic standards. interact. The Legislative Assembly: Bills, Private Members’ amongst other Benchmarking amongst other • provides, after each general Statements, Adjournment national and international election or on occasions Debates, Grievance Debates, national and Parliaments can provide evidence during a term, the State Address-in-Reply debates international of verifiable quality standards. Government from the political and Bill debates (debate and The CPA’s Recommended party or coalition of parties grievance).2 Parliaments can Benchmarks for Democratic which has obtained a majority There are a range of provide evidence Legislatures1 are intended to be a of the seats in the Legislative instruments which guide and Amanda model for Parliaments to be able Assembly or at least has the support the Legislative Assembly of verifiable to assess themselves against confidence of and can obtain and its Members in relation to the quality standards. Honeyman is the a Commonwealth standard the supply (financial support) areas covered by the benchmarks. First Clerk Assistant designed to help legislatures from the majority of the These include but are not limited The CPA’s (Procedure) and identify ways in which to improve Members of the Assembly, to the: Code of Ethical Standards Recommended Manager Education their democratic performance. • passes Bills, which, after for Members, Media Guidelines, This article is based on the Assent by the Governor, Member’s Remuneration Benchmarks but may be set aside through • incompatibility of office Above: The Parliament of and Communication Queensland Parliament’s 2017 become statutes which Handbook, the Constitution, for Democratic legislative amendment, • immunity Queensland in Brisbane, Australia. Services. She has over report on its self-assessment constitute the State’s laws Parliament of Queensland Act • 3 Stars – Complies with • remuneration and benefits 11 years’ experience against the CPA benchmarks. as well as often providing the 2001, (POQA) Parliamentary Legislatures the benchmark, but can be • resignation, and unsound mind, who have been with the Queensland basis for Government activity Service Act 1988, Queensland are intended to set aside with relative ease, • infrastructure convicted of treason or treachery Parliament of Queensland (the legislative function), Parliamentary Procedures for example, in Standing Of the fifteen General and have not been pardoned, or Parliament. Under sections 1 and 2 of • has a financial responsibility Handbook, Sessional Orders and be a model for Orders or statute but can be benchmarks, the Queensland are currently serving a sentence Queensland’s Constitution Act of overseeing and granting Standing Rules and Orders. Parliaments to set-aside or suspended by a Parliament did not score less than of imprisonment of 3 years or 1867, the State’s legislative the Government’s requested simple majority, 4 stars, with a total of 60 points longer. Recent amendments power is vested in the monarch appropriations of revenue Benchmarks and the be able to assess • 2 Stars – Substantially out of a potential 65 points. Two to the Constitution introduced (via Her Majesty’s representative and expenditure (the Queensland Parliament’s themselves complies with the benchmarks were not applicable fixed four-year parliamentary in Queensland, the Governor) and financial function), performance benchmark, (3.2.2 regarding special measures terms. Elections are undertaken the Legislative Assembly. The • provides a forum to scrutinise The Queensland Parliament against a • 1 Star – Partially complies to encourage the political by the Electoral Commission Queensland Parliament is unique the Executive Government’s meets the majority of the CPA’s Commonwealth with the benchmark, participation of marginalized of Queensland (ECQ), an among Australian states in that it activities and action through Recommended Benchmarks for • 0 Stars – Does not comply, groups and 3.3.2 regarding independent statutory body was the only colonial Parliament a variety of parliamentary Democratic Legislatures.3 standard and bicameral legislatures). established under legislation. The (pre-1901) to commence with procedures including As part of its self-assessment, designed to • N/A – Not applicable to the Elections and candidates: The purpose of the ECQ is to support two chambers and is now the Question Time, Private the Queensland Parliament rated Queensland Parliament. Queensland Parliament scored democratic electoral process Ciara Furlong only unicameral state parliament, Members Motions, Bill its performance against each help legislatures Each star is worth one point. highly with respect to elections. by preparing for, conducting following the abolition of the debates and parliamentary benchmark using a five-star rating identify ways in The results of the self- Elections are held regularly, and reporting on elections in is an Assistant Legislative Council in 1922. Committee activities (the system, as outlined below: assessment, separated into the and suffrage is governed by Queensland. Committee Secretary The Legislative Assembly is scrutiny function), • 5 Stars – Complies with the which to improve four categories identified by the the Electoral Act 1992 (Qld) Eligibility of candidates in the Queensland comprised of 93 members each • is a representative institution benchmark and is included in their democratic CPA (general, organisation of (Electoral Act) with reference to and elected representatives is Parliament and representing a single-member for all of the State’s citizens constitutional legislation, and the Legislature, functions of the the eligibility criteria stipulated in not based on religion, gender, electorate. The Constitution of via their elected Members can only be set aside with performance.” legislature, and values of the the Commonwealth Electoral Act ethnicity, race or disability. currently works with Queensland 2001 (Qld) (the (the representative function), considerable difficulty, for legislature) are discussed below. 1918. Section 93 of the latter Act However, pre-selection of the Ethics Committee Constitution) was recently and example, via a referendum provides that all persons who have candidates is determined by and the Committee amended to introduce fixed four- • provides a forum for matters or legislative amendment General attained 18 years of age and are political parties so there is of the Legislative year parliamentary terms from the of public interest and concern requiring an absolute These benchmarks cover general Australian citizens shall be entitled potential for the selection of previous flexible three-year terms. to be debated and addressed majority, aspects of the parliament, including: to enrol to vote. Exceptions to the candidate by the party to Assembly. As a representative assembly, through parliamentary • 4 Stars – Complies with the • elections this universal suffrage exist in be impacted by these factors. the Legislative Assembly is procedures such as benchmark via legislation, • candidate eligibility the case of persons who are of Members may take an oath or

128 | The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two | 129 SELF-ASSESSMENT AGAINST SELF-ASSESSMENT AGAINST THE CPA’S RECOMMENDED THE CPA’S RECOMMENDED BENCHMARKS FOR BENCHMARKS FOR DEMOCRATIC LEGISLATURES DEMOCRATIC LEGISLATURES make an affirmation in order to benchmarks that make up this regularly established pursuant introduction and debate of Private There are also limitations to a pecuniary interest register, One of the more obvious major parties to be seen to remove take their seat in the Legislative section, with a total of 150 of 205 to legislation; the Committee of Members’ Bills. Most Bills are the benchmarks on financial and published twice yearly, code of challenges to improving against or significantly alter current Assembly – this is included in potential points. the Legislative Assembly and the referred to a portfolio Committee budget oversight by Committees. ethical standards for Members the benchmarks is Executive governance arrangements. constitutional legislation and Procedures and sessions: Ethics Committee are established for examination and report. Any Ultimately, the executive of the (other than Members in their dominance. However, as The Queensland Parliament can only be set aside through Notably, the Parliament meets under the POQA, and the Crime Bills not referred to a Committee, or day determines the budget of the capacity as Ministers), to assist Queensland is a unicameral will continue to strengthen legislative amendment requiring the majority of benchmarks for and Corruption Act 2001 (CCA) referred for a period of less than six Auditor-General, the Ombudsman and educate Members in parliament dominated by two its performance against the an absolute majority. procedures and sessions. There establishes the Parliamentary weeks must be declared urgent by and the Information Commissioner terms of their obligations. The major parties, it is not anticipated democratic benchmarks and Immunity: Members of is scope to improve in some Crime and Corruption Committee the House. thereby exercising executive control Ethics Committee investigates that this situation will change in the keep astride of advances in the Queensland Parliament areas, for example voting. While (PCCC). Membership of In the current government over them to some degree, despite alleged breaches against the near future. parliamentary practices and have immunity for things said voting is in public, members of Committees reflects the majority, the reality is that, despite a requirement to consult with Code of Ethical Standards and That said, the Queensland procedures. during proceedings of the the public may attend and watch composition of the Assembly; all Members having an opportunity Committees. The Committee can contempts of Parliament. The Parliament has undertaken Legislature. The powers, rights the proceedings in the gallery Members, including the Chairs, to introduce legislation and only report its dissatisfaction to the POQA defines and provides significant reform in recent years, References: and immunities of the Legislative or via the internet broadcast of are nominated by the Leader of amendments, Private Members’ House, it cannot change the budget. examples of contempts and the for example the introduction of the 1 Commonwealth Parliamentary Assembly and its Committees the proceedings, the procedures the House and Leader of the Bills will only pass their Second Standing Orders addresses the current portfolio based Committee Association, Recommended is defined in the Constitution around voting are contained in the Opposition and are appointed and and Third Reading stages if there Values of the Legislature powers, rights and immunities of system in 2011, which has seen Benchmarks for Democratic and the POQA provides that Standing Orders and may be set discharged by the House. is some government support for On this section, the Queensland legislators, including contempts. the jurisdiction improve markedly Legislatures, 2016. the freedom of speech and aside by a simple majority. Also, The CPA benchmarks state them; it is more likely that the Parliament scored 28 points The Integrity Commissioner, an against the benchmarks. 2 www.parliament.qld.gov.au/ debates or proceedings in the under the Standing Orders, the that Committee hearings and Government would introduce a out of a possible 40. In relation independent statutory officer, Also, it should be noted that, explore/about-us/parliament- Assembly cannot be impeached names of Members voting will votes of Committees shall be in similar Bill which would pass in lieu to accessibility, the Legislative provides written advice to while many benchmarks were overview/role-of-parliament. or questioned in any court or place not be recorded where there are public and that any exception of the Private Members’ Bill. Assembly is open to citizens and to Members on ethical or integrity rated with three or four out of a 3 Commonwealth Parliamentary out of the Assembly. fewer than five Members voting in to this shall be clearly defined All Members have the right to the media, which is non-partisan, is issues as requested. possible five stars in accordance Association – Queensland Branch, To remove any doubt, it is a particular way, only the result of and provided for in the rules of offer amendments to proposed given access to the proceedings. with the ease with which the Results of the Assessment of the declared that this is intended to the vote is recorded. procedure. The Queensland legislation (Bills) in the consideration The Parliament has an Education Conclusion benchmark can be set aside, it is Parliament of Queensland using have the same effect as article The Leader of the House (a Parliament partially complies in detail stage of the Bill. There is no and Communications Services Overall, the Queensland Parliament unlikely in most, if not all, cases the Commonwealth Parliamentary 9 of the Bill of Rights (1688). Member of the Government) sets with this standard. Standing provision for the Committee to move which promotes the work of and performs well against the that the Legislative Assembly Association’s ‘Benchmarks for Parliamentary immunity (privilege) the sitting dates each year and Orders require Committees to its recommended amendments the public’s understanding of the benchmarks though, as in any would attempt to do so. Following Democratic Legislatures’, October 2017 attaches to proceedings of the also sets the agenda for debate. deliberate in private however, each to a Bill in the House. It is usually Parliament. modern parliamentary system, we the Fitzgerald Inquiry4 in the 4 GE Fitzgerald, Report of a Assembly, rather than to an General business notices of Committee may resolve to publish the Executive that decides if it In relation to ethical acknowledge there is room for 1980s, it would not be in the Commission of Inquiry Pursuant to individual and so remains despite motion placed on the Notice Paper its proceedings. While Committee will introduce amendments in governance, the Parliament has improvement. political interest of either or the Orders in Council, 1989. the end of a Member’s term. lapse after 30 days. Generally, hearings are generally in public accordance with Committee Section 9 of the POQA provides these notices of motion are Private and broadcast, this is at the recommendations. As with Bills, it that proceedings in the Assembly Members motions, where the discretion of the Committee. is unlikely that Private Members’ The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) produces a number of guides and include all words spoken and Leader of the House does not The Queensland Parliament amendments to Bills will be toolkits for Commonwealth Parliamentarians and Parliamentary staff including the CPA acts done in the course of, or agree to allocate time to move meets all of the benchmarks in incorporated into legislation during for the purposes of or incidental the motion for debate, the motion relation to political parties, party the consideration in detail stage of Recommended Benchmarks for Democratic Legislatures; the Recommended Benchmarks to, transacting business of the lapses. Hence, while there is an groups and cross-party groups the legislative process. Amendments for Codes of Conduct for Members of Parliament and the Handbook on Constituency Assembly or a Committee and opportunity for the motions to be but it should be noted that the moved during the consideration in cannot be waived. placed on the Notice Paper, there Parliamentary Service’s ability detail stage can significantly alter Development Funds (CDFs): Principles and Tools for Parliamentarians. Whilst there is the theoretical is also the possibility that they to provide adequate resources the legislation and are not subject to potential for a change to be might not be brought on for debate and facilities for party groups any level of scrutiny by the House or made to legislation governing a and therefore lapse. is constrained by the budget a Committee. number of these benchmarks, Committees: The Queensland determined by the Speaker, and Whilst the Parliament meets changes that diminish provisions Parliament scored well with ultimately, the Executive. the majority of the applicable relating to elections, candidates respect to the benchmarks benchmarks in relation to and Members’ immunity and around Committees. The Functions of the Legislature legislative function, there are remuneration are highly unlikely. Constitution provides that the The Parliament scored a total of limitations on public input in Legislative Assembly must, at 66 points out of a potential 85 Queensland. For example, Bills Organisation of the Legislature the commencement of every points. Section 8 of the Constitution declared urgent may not be This section of the benchmarks session, establish a minimum of six provides law-making powers for subject to Committee scrutiny, or covers the organisation of the portfolio Committees with areas the Legislative Assembly. The provide opportunity for public input legislature, including: of responsibility that collectively Standing Orders provide for the and afford little time for legislators • procedure and sessions cover all areas of government introduction, consideration and to consider the Bill before they • committees activity. In practice there are passing of both Government Bills are to vote on whether it should • political parties, party groups usually between 7 and 8 portfolio and Private Member Bills and the pass or not. Also, following a and cross-party groups, and Committees established under Sessional Orders set aside time Committee consideration of a Bill, Please contact [email protected] to request a copy or visit • parliamentary staff the POQA and the Standing for the debate of government the government may introduce www.cpahq.org/cpahq/resources to download an e-version. The Queensland Parliament Orders. There are also three business, including Government amendments which are not meets the majority of the forty-one special purpose Committees Bills, and a separate time for the subject to Committee scrutiny.

130 | The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two | 131 CELEBRATING A DECADE CELEBRATING A DECADE OF DEDICATION FOR OF DEDICATION FOR PARLIAMENTARY PARLIAMENTARY EXCELLENCE IN PAKISTAN EXCELLENCE IN PAKISTAN CELEBRATING A DECADE OF DEDICATION FOR PARLIAMENTARY EXCELLENCE IN PAKISTAN

Pakistan Institute for Parliamentary Services (2008-2018)

of Pakistan and the National The green campus (run on individual MPs at the federal and Above: The state of the art Assembly. Perhaps PIPS is the solar energy) of the Institute provincial levels for their valuable campus of the Pakistan Institute only federal institution in the was constructed by the work in the parliamentary for Parliamentary Services (PIPS). country that is willingly supported USAID through its Legislative chambers. by all the four Provincial Strengthening Project on the The Institute also provides Assemblies of the federating land provided by the National technical assistance to dozens of ways and mean to take the Zafarullah Khan Every pillar within the trichotomy piloted through a Private Members’ “Respecting the units as well. This commitment Assembly of Pakistan in 2012. interested Standing Committees. parliamentary research support is the Executive of power requires a special set of Bill - a rare practice in the fragile constitutional soul reflects Pakistani democracy’s Since then this permanent Over the years the Institute has to the next level in terms of Director of the skills and in-depth professional but ever-evolving democratic unwavering trust, especially the seat of parliamentary learning expanded its radius to cater diversification of services and knowledge. However the concept tradition in Pakistan. and spirit of the Parliament that is a democratic equipped with state of the art to the emerging needs of the innovative knowledge products, Pakistan Institute for of parliamentary development, Respecting the constitutional repository of the citizen’s will, in technologies is solely funded Legislative Assemblies of Azad vital for informed parliamentary Parliamentary Services training and research institutes soul and spirit of the ‘Federal ‘Federal Republic’ futuristic investment to make by the Senate of Pakistan (one Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit- inputs. since May 2016. He is a comparatively new Republic’, the founders of the founders of the country’s parliamentary third) and the National Assembly Baltistan. Various parliamentary In this regard, the PIPS is also a member phenomenon. the Institute came-up with a institutions work well and meet of Pakistan (two-thirds). The institutions in Pakistan have also has specifically focused on Whereas the tradition of unique institutional design to the Institute came- the expectations of the citizenry. four Provincial Assemblies also established and strengthened improvements of the quality of of the Editorial civil service academies for the intellectually and functionally up with a unique The story of the PIPS contribute financially besides their own in-house research parliamentary documentation Advisory Board for The executive, judicial academies link all parliamentary institutions institutional design also epitomizes that how hosting PIPS satellite offices in departments. and their easy accessibility to the Parliamentarian. for the judiciary and military at the federal and provincial ‘democracy support’ by donors their precincts. Responding to the changing interested citizens. academies for the citizens in levels through a high power to intellectually and can be embedded within the Since its optimal culture, the Institute has Here it is worth mentioning uniform are pretty old. 22-member multi party Board indigenous democratic culture operationalization, the Institute is established a Joint Research that almost every parliament Pakistan is no exception; it of (BOG) chaired functionally link and effectively sustained providing research support and Forum to share each other’s in the world is one hundred joined the bandwagon as late by the Speaker of the National all parliamentary institutionally for long. technical assistance to 1,174 experiences and explore the percent documented through as many other emerging and Assembly and the Chairman its well preserved , evolving democracies did in the of the Senate of Pakistan on institutions which becomes one of the 21st century by establishing a full- a 3-year rotation term. All the at the federal most valuable sources for fledged parliamentary institute. four Speakers of the Provincial research and understanding the Within a short span of time such Assemblies, the Federal Minister and provincial evolution and sociology of the institutes are offering a wide for parliamentary affairs, eight levels through a parliamentary institutions. The range of services and are proving Members of the National PIPS has made best use of this their efficacy. Assembly and four Senators 22-member multi amazing possibility and linked In 2008, Pakistanis reclaimed along with the Secretaries party Board of various academic institutions their democracy after experiencing of both Federal Houses are to promote scholarships and the fourth hybrid-military regime members of the BOG. The Governors (BOG) to develop research-based (1999-2008) and one of the Executive Director of the Institute chaired by the knowledge products about the first pieces of legislation that the serves as the ex-officio secretary Parliament. Parliament unanimously adopted to the BOG. Speaker of the that year was to create the Since its creation, the PIPS National Assembly Pakistan Institute for Parliamentary has been ably guided, aptly Left: The Parliamentary SDG Services (PIPS) as an independent supported and generously and the Chairman taskforce launching the Pakistan and autonomous statutory body. funded by the both Houses of the Senate of Institute for Parliamentary Services It was a multi-party consensus of the Parliament, the Senate Pakistan.” publication on the SDGs.

132 | The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two | 133 CELEBRATING A DECADE CELEBRATING A DECADE OF DEDICATION FOR OF DEDICATION FOR PARLIAMENTARY PARLIAMENTARY EXCELLENCE IN PAKISTAN EXCELLENCE IN PAKISTAN

Above: Youth engagement is an events in a federal setting both Bills, undertaking legislative The Institute provides important aspect of PIPS work. for the MPs and over 5,000 research, conducting public intellectual support, space Assembly and the President of outside the Parliament House Above: The Speaker of the parliamentary officials in the hearings among stakeholders and secretarial services to PIPS BOG, Hon. Sardar Ayaz and a Parliamentary Resource National Assembly of Pakistan country. With the journey towards on various legislative proposals parliamentary forums like the Sadiq, launched a Parliamentary Centre in the Parliament Lodges and the President of the Pakistan Courtesy of its federal fully-fledged parliamentary and arranging legal socialization Women’s Parliamentary Caucus, Studies discipline at twenty-two (i.e. in close proximity to the MPs Institute for Parliamentary character, the Institute often services in Pakistan, the Institute sessions on laws enacted by the Young Parliamentarians’ Forum, public and private universities residences) and at the provincial Services Board of Governors comes up with indigenized has been assigned a role to Parliament constitute a significant Sustainable Development Goals alongside arranging series levels, its satellite offices are celebrate the 70th anniversary of parliamentary bench-marking conduct specially tailored courses part of the Institute’s work. The Parliamentary Taskforce and the of seminars, workshops, housed within the parliamentary the Parliament of Pakistan. among various Houses, and exams that are mandatory Institute has quite meticulously Senate Policy Reforms Forum. “The Institute has conferences and public events. precincts. innovations for the harmonization for merit based promotions. As collected all primary laws on the The Institute also facilitates The Institute annually offers Secondly in terms of its of the Rules of Procedure a result, the average training federal statute book as a part occasional inter-provincial and done effective internships to interested students scope, scale and services the and Conduct of Business in calendar at the Institute is always of its extensive research project federal-provincial parliamentary networking with and recruits a cohort of young Institute effectively internalizes human resources and overall the legislative institutions and triple than the normal Gregorian Parliament @ 70. The research exchange programs for MPs graduates and provides them with the multi-functional paradigm institutional approach. One of deepening understanding about calendar. undertaken in this context has and parliamentary officials for similar kinds on-job training in parliamentary of the Parliament. Meaning the significant lessons learned imitable best practices through its Facilitating the legislators in provided authentic knowledge sharing experiences and the of institutions services. thereby, the Institute remains through the dynamic existence of interactive learning and training drafting their Private Members base for future research. parliamentary innovations worthy These acquaintances with open to innovations in any aspect the PIPS, is that while democracy of emulation. in other the parliamentary institutions of ancillary work to serve the is always a work in progress and The Institute serves parliamentary and processes at a young age parliament in a befitting manner. the parliamentary institutions as a bridge between the help to create a critical mass that The Institutes’ efforts avoid are ever-evolving, therefore, it is representative democratic democracies. This understands the constitutional duplications by bringing new prudent and futuristic to invest institutions and the citizenry networking is an software and parliamentary ideas and innovations to support time, energy and resources in at large through its outreach architecture of the State that parliamentary institutions. such kinds of institutions as they activities. In a society that is important feature enjoys centrality in the polity Thirdly, the Institute has done are bound to yield the dividends plagued by constitutional and of parliamentary in terms of representation, effective networking with similar that are well aligned with broader parliamentary illiteracy - the legislation, fiscal appropriations kinds of institutions in other national democratic dreams, civic education endeavors of cooperation that and oversight. The Institute also parliamentary democracies. aspirations and desired outcomes the Institute are important. The can help author liaises with donors working in the This networking is an important and expectations from the Institute under the leadership domain of parliamentary support. feature of parliamentary parliamentary institutions. of the Speaker of the National a new chapter All this reflects that unlike cooperation that can help author The story of the PIPS amply of mutually similar institutions in other a new chapter of mutually testify that such an investment countries, the PIPS is a unique beneficial relations with various is positively co-related to the beneficial institution that simultaneously countries. authentic democratic dividend for relations with serves the federal and provincial While celebrating the first the state and the society. Left: A delegation from the CPA UK legislative institutions. At a federal decade of its existence, the PIPS Branch on a recent visit to PIPS. various countries.” level, it has its own campus has undertaken a review of its Website: www.pips.gov.pk

134 | The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two | 135 9TH COMMONWEALTH 9TH COMMONWEALTH YOUTH PARLIAMENT YOUTH PARLIAMENT

TH our historic Parliament, as well as in relation to the fictional 9 COMMONWEALTH YOUTH PARLIAMENT empowers them to make a positive ‘Commonwealthland’. difference in shaping the future of Many of the sessions were their own communities.” presided over by CPA Jersey INSPIRES FUTURE YOUNG LEADERS FROM ACROSS The CYP gave participants a Chairperson, Connetable Pan-Commonwealth experience Len Norman from the States and a hugely valuable networking Assembly of Jersey and opportunity including with current the States Assembly staff THE COMMONWEALTH young Members of Parliament ensured the smooth running from the Commonwealth - Hon. of parliamentary procedures. th 9 Commonwealth Youth Parliament took place from 25 February to Temard Butterfield, MHA (Turks The CYP delegates also faced 1 March 2018, hosted by the Jersey States Assembly in St Helier. and Caicos); Deputy Sam Mezec the media in a ‘mock’ press (Jersey); Hon. Jermaine Figueira, conference with questions from MP (Guyana); Hon. John Paul local journalists including Andy

Commonwealth youth delegates Mwirigi, MP (Kenya) - who acted Sibcy of the Jersey Evening Images: CPA Jersey Branch/CPA Headquarters Secretariat. aged 18 to 29 met for the as mentors throughout the week. Post and Clare Burton from ITV 9th Commonwealth Youth In a notable departure from News. Delegates Parliament (9th CYP) from 25 previous years, the 9th CYP, in at the CYP9 were entertained February to 1 March 2018, recognition of the non-party at a dinner hosted by Highlands hosted by the Commonwealth system in the States Assembly College, a leading Further *The full list of CPA Branches being Helena; Tonga; Turks and Caicos; United Parliamentary Association (CPA) in Jersey, saw youth participants Education College in Jersey, with represented at the 9th Commonwealth Kingdom; Wales; Zambia. and the Jersey States Assembly acting as the Government, chef and hospitality students and Youth Parliament were: Australia in St Helier, Jersey. The 49 Opposition and independents lecturers providing the excellent Capital Territory; Barbados; Belize; delegates at the 9th CYP came sitting together, allowing for food and service. British Columbia; Cayman Islands; 9th Commonwealth Youth Parliament from fifteen countries, ranging a wider sharing of opinions The 9th CYP was originally to ; Falkland Islands; Ghana; images available at: www.cpahq.org/ from the largest (India) to the and engagement in debates. have been hosted by the House Gibraltar; ; Guyana; Isle of cpahq/flickr. smallest (), and from 35 Participants experienced of Assembly of the British Virgin Man; Jamaica; Jersey; Kenya; Kerala; CPA Branches* across eight out parliament in a real-life situation Islands in October 2017, but Montserrat; Nevis Island; New South To view the closing ceremony of the 9th of nine CPA Regions. in the legislative chamber. The that was made impossible by the Wales; New Zealand; Niue; Northern Commonwealth Youth Parliament please The five days of the programme also included taking devastating effects of hurricanes Territory; North West Territories; visit: https://statesassembly.public-i.tv/ Commonwealth Youth Parliament part in parliamentary procedures, Irma and Maria. ; Pakistan; ; core/portal/webcast_interactive/339808. provided a key development debating legislation and motions Scotland; South Australia; Sri Lanka; St opportunity for young people and a shared understanding sense that our future is bright and “Mission accomplished.” from the Commonwealth with of tolerance, acceptance and can be successful.” Mr Mark Egan, of the NEW CEREMONIAL PRESENTED TO THE COMMONWEALTH YOUTH PARLIAMENT ambitions of public office and working with each other that will In addressing the 9th CYP States Assembly added: “We were introduced these potential help us in our future lives.” delegates at the start of their delighted to welcome so many A new ceremonial mace for the Closing Ceremonies of future Assembly of Jersey and CPA popular programmes and brings young Parliamentarians to Pierre de Garis (Guernsey) programme, the Secretary- young people from across the Commonwealth Youth Parliament Commonwealth Youth Parliaments. Jersey Branch as they hosted together participants aged 18-29 the fundamentals behind the said: “You can’t ignore the fact General of the Commonwealth Commonwealth to Jersey for this (CYP) was inaugurated at the 9th I see it as a Speaker’s legacy the 9th CYP and it was then representing the nine CPA processes of Parliament. that this Commonwealth Youth Parliamentary Association (CPA), exciting and unique opportunity. CYP in Jersey. The new mace was which can be passed from one passed onto the Parliament of Regions – Africa; Asia; Australia; Youth delegate, Elsie Harry Parliament which brings together Mr Akbar Khan, said: “Together, The Commonwealth Youth presented to the Commonwealth Commonwealth Youth Parliament India (Lok Sabha) on behalf of British Islands and Mediterranean; (St Kitts and Nevis) said: “From such a diverse group of people this week we are a fantastically Parliament gives young people Youth Parliament by youth to the next. The piece I selected is a the CPA India Region as the Caribbean, Americas and Atlantic; taking part in this Commonwealth with different cultures and histories diverse group serving as a the opportunity to develop their delegate, Artour Sogomonian yellow cedar paddle, carved by Ross future hosts of the 10th CYP. The Canada; India; Pacific; South East Youth Parliament, I’ve learnt had challenges. However it is microcosm of Commonwealth leadership skills and experience from British Colombia, Canada Henderson of the Kwakwaka’wakw Commonwealth Youth Parliament Asia. The host of the CYP rotates that the challenges that different testament to the Commonwealth youth. Please on behalf of the former Speaker First Nation in Alert Bay, British (CYP) is one of the CPA’s most through the regions alphabetically. regions face are specifically that the demonstrable values we learn from each of the Legislative Assembly of Columbia. Gifts and offerings to related to their geographical all share have allowed us to come other, network British Columbia, Hon. Linda Reid, spirits and animals of the Undersea situation and historical context together and find consensus and and seize the MLA, who hosted the 8th CYP in World are often offered from the and within the Commonwealth common ground.” opportunity to November 2016. blade of a paddle. Paddles represent we always have to bear this in At the closing of the 9th CYP, forge lasting Hon. Linda Reid said: “The transportation, the sea, and life’s mind when making decisions.” the , friendships. Commonwealth Youth Parliament journey. These descriptors also apply Talha Haroon (Pakistan) said: Senator said: “To be a I encourage mace is a British Columbia to our young Parliamentarians.” “The biggest thing that we can leader is an honour and to lead you to pursue Aboriginal art piece which can The new CYP ceremonial take from this Commonwealth is to serve. The Commonwealth your ambitions, be used at the Opening and mace was held by the States Youth Parliament is what we have brings together people for global political or learnt from each other. We all and local benefit. I am extremely otherwise.” come from diverse places across proud of our young people at the At the end of the Commonwealth yet we can Commonwealth Youth Parliament the 9th CYP, each take home new experiences and I have an overwhelming he observed,

136 | The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two | 137 9TH COMMONWEALTH 9TH COMMONWEALTH YOUTH PARLIAMENT YOUTH PARLIAMENT

MY EXPERIENCE AT THE 9TH COMMONWEALTH YOUTH PARLIAMENT: MY EXPERIENCE AT THE 9TH COMMONWEALTH YOUTH PARLIAMENT: THE JAMAICA YOUTH PARTICIPANT’S PERSPECTIVE THE UNITED KINGDOM YOUTH PARTICIPANT’S PERSPECTIVE

Jevon Khalfani Reid, National on amendments before voting to less special and delightful thanks Youth Parliamentarian from make same proposition into a Bill. to our Jersey hosts. Jamaica The exercise has further Admittedly, up until CYP9, The Commonwealth Youth steeped my interest in public affairs I had reservations about the Parliament represents a sustained and will manifest itself in me being Commonwealth, its history, its effort by the CPA at youth a more active Jamaican citizen. place in the 21st century and involvement. This is commendable Based on the interaction its future. As a history graduate as the world over, there has with Parliamentarians at the and as a member of the South been a recent wave of interest in CYP, it is evident that they have Asian diaspora, I had coupled youth political participation, which benefited immensely and are more the Commonwealth alongside signals a crucial new opening for empowered to step beyond the the traumatic history of empire. debates and proposals to enhance confines of their local youth groups Whilst the origins of the the inclusion of youth and our and engage in more youth-led Khadijah Khatun Commonwealth and its creation perspectives in the political process. advocacy at the level of civil society. 9th Commonwealth Youth are important to remember, I was After an evening of meeting hand from the Jersey States Critical to this point is This I believe will contribute further Parliamentarian from the able to develop an understanding our CPA hosts and fellow young Assembly. Days spent in the the astonishing fact that the to democratization and developing United Kingdom of what the Commonwealth people, we later separated into Jersey States chamber were Commonwealth is a youthful a more positive image of youth and Late last year, I was selected means today. Government and opposition lengthy but fascinating. Whilst organisation with 60% of the politics. to represent the UK at the Over the course of the parties of ‘Commonwealthland’, many of us were daunted by population being youth under 30 The experience was made 9th Commonwealth Youth programme, which was planned whilst a small number acted as the prospect of public debating, years old. A more in depth look at unique and remarkable, as Above: Jamaica Youth Parliamentarian, Jevon Khalfani Reid (third Parliament (CYP9). This to meticulous detail by the independent members. Later, a others revelled in the opportunity. youth involvement reveals that only the Commonwealth Youth from left) at the 9th Commonwealth Youth Parliament in Jersey opportunity was made even CPA Headquarters Secretariat new breakaway group formed, It was then that I realised I was about 1.7% of Parliamentarians Parliamentarians also had the together with (left to right) Hon. Temard Butterfield, MHA (Turks and more special as it was set to team, I grew to understand ‘The Voyagers’. This was an undoubtedly sitting amongst around the world are in their 20s opportunity to interact with Caicos); Hon. Jermain Figueira, MP (Guyana); and Hon. John Paul be held in the British Virgin that this vibrant network works exciting development in the future leaders. and 11.9% are in their 30s. young Members of Parliament Mwirigi, MP (Kenya) - who acted as mentors to youth participants. Islands. However, due to the to help its respective nations politics of Commonwealthland. Over the course of the Over 50 Commonwealth or Members of a Legislative sad devastation caused by navigate through challenging In our respective groups we programme, I was most impressed youth delegates aged 18 Assembly in their own country. While the Commonwealth amendments be applied in Hurricane Irma to the Island times and bring about global spent evenings and late nights by the feeling of collective unity I to 29 convened from 24 It was a huge pleasure to continues to grow and invest in its the execution of the Jamaica and its nation, the CYP9 was development. Commonwealth in caucus meetings, pouring felt whilst amongst fellow young February to 1 March 2018 engage with them on different youth, it is clear that so long as there National Youth Parliament. I relocated in February to the small values of honest government, ourselves over the policies and people – students, researchers, for the 9th Commonwealth levels; whether it was finding out is increased youth involvement; its believe that this will give the but hospitable British Crown the protection of human rights, characteristics of this nation activists, government workers, Youth Parliament (9th CYP) about their political philosophies future remains promising. Parliament autonomy as a dependency of Jersey. What peace and order, and equal whilst preparing arguments, future world changers. I didn’t feel hosted by the Commonwealth or ways to manipulate or expedite This experience has provided group which debates youth we had anticipated on being a representation irrespective of questions and amendments for any divisions despite our varying Parliamentary Association (CPA) the procedures of the assembly/ me with many insights to share related issues and makes warm and exotic backdrop to race, gender, religion – these debates. This was all overseen backgrounds, perspectives and and the States Assembly in St parliamentary sitting to posit with the National Youth Parliament solutions which the youth our programme, was in reality a are all to be celebrated and by the CPA team, Members homes. I felt more connected than Helier, Jersey. Participants were views in a way to get favorable of Jamaica of which I am a ministry will consider in snowy and chilly one. This by no sought by all Governments and of Parliament from across the anything. provided with the experience outcomes which will enhance member. Some of these include: service to the nation’s youth. means made the experience any Parliaments. Commonwealth and experts on With more than 60% of the of participatory democracy service to constituents. Most • Advocating for the adoption I humbly seize the opportunity Commonwealth’s population as we acted as government, importantly, I enjoyed learning of a youth quota which to thank the Branch of the CPA made up of those under 30, I am opposition and independents of their ascension and how they will serve to promote the in Jamaica for recognizing how optimistic that the youth of the and debated propositions in managed to bolster the support inclusion of young people in important this event is and for Commonwealth will help influence the Legislative Assembly of and ultimately win the vote of national politics (at the party choosing me as their delegate. and implement the necessary ‘Commonwealthland’ and voted confidence of party vanguards. level or in parliament). I consider myself privileged to changes needed to ensure that • Raising an awareness of the have been selected and would each and every member of the need for youth involvement enthusiastically promote this Commonwealth is valued and in politics and assuring youth opportunity to others in the years celebrated. Some of the valuable that there are methods to come. connections made at CYP9, I and means of resolving hope will be at the forefront of this our challenges through “This world demands the necessary change, and for this, I less-traditional political qualities of youth: not a time am grateful. venues. (e.g. Democracy for of life but a state of mind, a Millennials) temper of the will, a quality of • Suggest that the same imagination, a predominance structure of operation of courage over timidity, of the which includes: debates, appetite for adventure over the question time and voting on love of ease.” - Robert Kennedy.

138 | The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two | 139 CWP NEWS CWP NEWS AND REGIONAL AND REGIONAL STRENGTHENING STRENGTHENING

Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians highlight gender equality and Two issues that need India. While these achievements enable Indians to raise their heads renewed focus on this high, the injustice and pain of women make their heads hang in women’s representation in Parliaments to mark International Women’s Day 2018 day are gender equality shame. International Women’s Day is a day to resolve not to tolerate and women’s safety. the kind of injustice and pain being experienced by women. Gender-sensitization Minister Shri Vijay Goel said it is not that changes have not come New CWP video launched to mark International Women’s should start in about in the conditions of women. But this transformation should Day 2018 every household, reach throughout the country wherever women are not getting Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) marked neighbourhood, complete rights and respect. International Women’s Day 2018 by highlighting gender equality school, institutions Many Members of the India Parliament spoke in favour of the and increasing women’s representation in Parliaments. International and community and Women Reservation Bill and supported the reservation of seats for Women’s Day (8th March) is a global day celebrating the social, mindset to respect girls women in India State Assemblies and in Lok Sabha. economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day and women should be In the Lok Sabha, the Speaker, Smt. Sumitra Mahajan also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity, with the Above: On International Women’s Day promoted at home and congratulated the women of India and of the whole world on the theme of International Women’s Day 2018 calling for ‘Progress for 2018, the Clerks-at-the-Table in the in schools, public areas, occasion of International Women’s Day. She said women always Women and the Vote in the Commonwealth’. Northwest Territories Legislative Assembly public transport and at carry their children and their culture together. Smt. Mahajan asked To mark the occasion, the CWP launched a new video in which were all female for the session. every place and every women to be positive, live with confidence and self-respect and the CWP Chairperson and women Parliamentarians from across stage. With women contribute to nation building. the Commonwealth speak about the CWP’s work in gender In Canada, the CPA Canada Federal Branch Chairperson, Hon. constituting 50% of our population, the social, economic and equality and their own experiences of being in Parliament. The video Yasmin Ratansi, MP attended a number of International Women’s political empowerment of women, including providing reservation To read the full parliamentary report of International Women’s Day also highlights the importance of reaching the Commonwealth Day events including a community panel debate and an event with of seats for women in Parliament and State Legislatures, has to in the India Parliament please turn to page 154. target of 30% female representation in Commonwealth legislatures Equal Voices Canada. be accorded top priority for the country to achieve rapid progress, and the vital role of networks such as the CWP to achieve change. The Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories in Canada emphasized the Rajya Sabha Chairman. Many more activities were held across the Commonwealth The CWP video features interviews with: the CWP Chairperson, celebrated International Women’s Day 2018 with Members’ The Minister of External Affairs, Smt. Sushma Swaraj said to mark International Women’s Day. Please send any news Hon. Dr Noraini Ahmad, MP (Malaysia); CWP President – Hon. statements to the House focusing on the IWD theme and a women have become President, Prime Minister, Speakers, Chief stories and images to [email protected]. Sagufta Yasmin, MP (Bangladesh); CWP Africa Region – Hon. motion titled ‘Increasing women’s participation in the Legislative Minister of many States and Presidents of many national parties in Thoko Didiza, MP (South Africa); CWP Australia Region – Hon. Assembly’ was also proposed by Ms. Julie Green, MLA. During the Jennifer Aitchison, MP (New South Wales); CWP British Islands sitting, the Clerks-at-the-Table in the chamber were all female for CWP New Zealand meet with visiting UK delegation to discuss gender and Mediterranean Region – Hon. Samantha Sacramento, MP the session. (Gibraltar); CWP Caribbean, Americas and Atlantic Region – Hon. In New South Wales, Australia, Hon. Jenny Aitchison, MP, Chair equality initiatives Shirley Osborne, MLA (Montserrat); CWP Canada Region – Hon. of the CWP New South Wales attended a UN Women International Yasmin Ratansi, MP (Canada); CWP South East Asia Region – Women’s Day Breakfast in Sydney where she heard from inspiring Members of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) and New Zealand Members noted that social media has increased Hon. Datuk Hajah Normala bintj Abdul Samad, MP (Malaysia); speaker, Janelle Weissman, Executive Director of UN Women New Zealand group, co-chaired by , MP (National) and the visibility and frequency of threats to MPs and their families, but CWP Pacific Region – Hon. , MP (New Zealand). Australia. The event was attended by many school students. , MP (Labour) held a meeting with UK Parliamentarians, the #Metoo movement has also been bringing this into the light. The CWP New South Wales also gathered women Members at Baroness Redfern and Diana Johnson, MP, part of a visiting CPA The CWP New Zealand Members are continuing to progress its To view the video interviews with the Commonwealth Women Parliament House in Sydney and many attended the International UK delegation. The agenda included discussion of conducting work to end forced and underaged marriage and are looking at its Parliamentarians please visit www.cpahq.org/cpahq/iwd. Women’s Day March through the streets of Sydney to campaign for a survey of women MPs (and potentially male MPs) on their cross-party legislative agenda for this term. an end to all violence and harassment towards women. experience of sexual violence, abuse and harassment. Both the UK CWP Members also discussed a campaign to ensure all women International Women’s Day 2018 celebrated across the MPs are up to date with cervical smears and Commonwealth International Women’s Day 2018 marked in the Parliament mammograms and intend to highlight this on Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians across the nine regions of India social media to demonstrate that Members are of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association celebrated On 8 March 2018, the Presiding Officers of both the Houses of good role models for their staff, families and International Women’s Day 2018 the India Parliament made references to International Women’s Day constituencies. CWP Members also agreed with a wide range of events and during some impassioned interventions in the chamber. The Vice- to hold their annual pink ribbon breakfast to activities. President of India and the Chairman, Rajya Sabha, Shri M. Venkaiah raise funds for Breast Cancer research and To mark International Naidu said the International Women’s Day is a day to celebrate and awareness in May. Women’s Day 2018 in London, honour the untiring During the same week, the Parliament of Commonwealth Women commitment and New Zealand also had a number of visiting Parliamentarians attended a high- determination of women MPs and women clerks from the Pacific level panel discussion hosted by ordinary women Region’s legislatures for a regional workshop. the Commonwealth Secretariat in India and CWP Pacific Steering Committee Chair, at Marlborough House in London, throughout the Anahila Kanonga’ata-Suisuiki, MP met with the UK at which the Commonwealth world to achieve workshop delegates to talk about the challenges Secretary-General Patricia equality, justice and opportunities facing the CPA Pacific Region Scotland spoke about gender and economic and enhancing women in leadership was a key equality in the Commonwealth. development. theme of the discussions. Images: Yasmin Ratansi/Twitter

140 | The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two | 141 CWP NEWS AND REGIONAL STRENGTHENING Parliamentary First statue of woman unveiled in UK’s Parliament Square to commemorate 100 years of women’s vote Report The first statue of a woman has been unveiled in Parliament Square opposite the United Kingdom Parliament. The statue NEWS AND LEGISLATION FROM COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTS commemorates the life of the suffragist, Dame Millicent Fawcett, who campaigned for women’s right to vote in the United Kingdom during the late 19th and early 20th centuries and is seen as one of the most influential feminists of the past 100 years. The bronze casting, which has been created by the artist Gillian Wearing, features Millicent Fawcett holding a banner reading ‘courage calls to courage everywhere’. The UK Prime Minister, Rt Hon. , MP, spoke at the statue’s unveiling together with the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan. The UK Prime Minister said the work would serve as a reminder of Dame Millicent’s extraordinary life and legacy. The statue was commissioned as part ten-pound note. She said she came up with the idea for the statue of the centenary of the 1918 when she was out running on International Women’s Day in 2016 Representation of the People Act and realised the only historical figures commemorated in the UK’s - which gave some women over Parliament Square were men. The eleven existing statues include the age of 30 the right to vote in Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandela, Abraham Lincoln, William THIRD READINGS the UK. Gladstone and Mahatma Gandhi. The statue unveiling has Dame Millicent Fawcett formed the National Union of Women’s British Columbia followed a long campaign by Suffrage Societies in 1897. The organisation used peaceful tactics the feminist writer and activist to campaign, including non-violent demonstrations, petitions Page 146 Caroline Criado Perez, who and the lobbying of MPs. They shared the same aims, but had also led a successful campaign different methods, to the suffragettes - the more radical group led Australia Federal last year for the writer Jane by Emmeline Pankhurst. Dame Millicent died in 1929, a year after Austen to appear on the UK women were granted the vote on equal terms to men. Page 147 Images: CPA Headquarters Secretariat. Images: CPA

Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians British Islands and Mediterranean New Zealand Regional Conference held in London Page 150 The United Kingdom Parliament and CPA UK Branch hosted the annual British Islands and Mediterranean (BIM) Regional Conference Sri Lanka for Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) on 26 Page 152 and 27 April 2018. The theme of the conference was ‘Women in Parliament: Past, Present and Future’ and it was attended by over 25 Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians from across the region. India Sri Lanka President addresses ceremonial The conference focused on the centenary of the UK Parliament Page 157 passing the 1918 Representation of the People Act, alongside opening of Parliament Page 153 topical issues such as sexual harassment and online abuse. UK Parliamentarian, Hon. Meg Hillier, MP delivered the keynote address and spoke about her role as Chair of the UK House of CANADA AUSTRALIA Commons Public Accounts Committee and the importance of Canada Federal budget and Treasurer delivers gender representation on Parliamentary Committees. With thanks to our new legislation election budget Rt. Hon. Maria Miller, MP spoke about her work as Chair of the Parliamentary Report and Third Page 144 Page 148 UK House of Commons Women and Equalities Select Committee Reading contributors: Stephen and conference delegates also heard from the CWP BIM Regional Boyd (Federal Parliament of Chairperson, Joyce Watson, AM (Wales). States of Australia); Ravindra Garimella Member, Norma Paris spoke about being the only woman Member (Parliament of India); Dr in her legislature, one of the smallest in the Commonwealth. Jayadev Sahu (Parliament of INDIA INDIA The CWP Regional Conference partnered with a number of India); Erin Virgint (Federal International Women’s National Legislators youth organisations such as The Girls Network to hear about Parliament of Canada); the issues affecting young women. Members heard from London Luke Harris (Parliament of Day 2018 marked in the Conference on Development school girls about their experiences of social media and also New Zealand); Karan Riarh Parliament of India takes place (British Columbia Legislative examined how to engage young women and girls in politics. Images: CPA UK Twitter Images: CPA Assembly); Neil Iddawala Page 154 Page 155 ().

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CANADA FEDERAL BUDGET AND NEW LEGISLATION 2018 Budget cooperatives and their license application, to aims to combat harassment in On 27 February 2018, the shareholders or members. person’s entire lifetime. federal workplaces, including Minister of Finance, Hon. Bill • Senate Public Bill S-232, An • On 2 May, Hon. Karina Parliament. The Committee Morneau, MP, introduced the Act respecting Canadian Gould, MP, Minister of suggested a number of 2018 federal budget, entitled Jewish Heritage Month, Democratic Institutions, amendments, including the Equality and Growth for a which designates May as tabled Bill C-76, the addition of clear definitions of Strong Middle Class. Among Jewish Heritage Month. Elections Modernization what constitutes harassment, the many spending priorities • Private Members’ Act. Among a number broadening how complaints announced, the budget offered Bill C-311, An Act to of reforms, C-76 aims to can be made and requiring a variety of programs geared amend the Holidays Act curb foreign interference employers and employees to to helping women in the (Remembrance Day), in Canadian elections, receive anti-harassment training. workforce through new parental amends the Holidays Act to introduces a “pre-writ” In the Senate, a number of supports, gender equality and make Remembrance Day a period with spending Committees were studying anti-harassment initiatives, as legal holiday. limits and disclosure elements of C-45, the Cannabis well as measures to promote • S-2, Strengthening rules for political parties, Act. Introduced in April 2017, the pay equity. On another note, Motor Vehicle Safety for increases the amount of Bill has been in the Senate since the budget also earmarked Canadians Act, which gives child care expenses during it was passed by the House in $3.8-billion over five years the Minister of Transport a campaign for which November 2017. On 1 May 2018, for scientific research, the vehicle recall powers qualifying candidates can the Senate’s Aboriginal Peoples single largest investment for (prior, manufacturers be reimbursed from 60% Committee recommended scientific research by the federal decided whether to to 90%, caps the length delaying implementation of the government. issue a vehicle recall), of an election period at Bill by up to a year, so that the requires manufacturers 50 days or less, allows federal government can consult Legislation to fix defective or non- at-home voting for people with Indigenous peoples on Since Parliament resumed compliant vehicles and with disabilities, and excise tax collection, education, (Standing Committee on based on the advice of the appointed to an Ontario in his office on Parliament Hill. sitting on 29 January, a number equipment at their expense allows Canadian citizens regulation, and health and Veterans Affairs); Independent Advisory Board Senate seat. First elected in 2004, Mr. Brown of bills received , before the vehicles are permanently living abroad social services. On 2 May, the • A Food Policy for Canada on Senate Appointments to fill On 11 May, Conservative had served as chief opposition including: sold, and imposes fines to vote. Senate Committee on Legal (Standing Committee on vacancies in Ontario. The new Senator Hon. Nancy Greene whip and Chair of the Standing • Bill C-70, Cree Nation of on manufacturers up to • On 10 May, Hon. Harjit and Constitutional Affairs Agriculture and Agri-food); Senators are: Raine, who served nine years, Committee on Canadian Heritage. Eeyou Istchee Governance $200,000 per day, per S. Sajjan, MP, Minister recommended a ban on home and • Hon. Martha Deacon, retired after upon reaching the On 3 May, New Democratic Agreement Act, which gives violation, for any actions of National Defence, cultivation. • Ensuring Justice is Done former educator, coach, mandatory retirement age of 75. Party (NDP) Leader Jagmeet effect to the Agreement on that contravene the Motor introduced Bill C-77, An In addition, a number of in Both Official Languages chef de mission for the 2010 As of 11 May, party Singh, announced that Erin Cree Nation Governance Vehicle Safety Act. Act to amend the National reports were tabled by House (Standing Committee on Commonwealth Games. standings in the Senate were: Weir, MP, had been removed between the Crees of Defence Act. The Bill Committees, including: Official Languages). When she was appointed, Independent Senators Group from the party’s caucus, Eeyou Istchee and the Furthermore, a number of amends a number of • Protecting Canadians’ she was serving as a 43; Conservative Party 32; following an independent Government of Canada to Bills were introduced by the provisions governing the Privacy at the U.S. Border Request for a Papal Apology director of the Canadian Liberal Party 11; non-affiliated 6; investigation into allegations reduce the administrative government, including: military justice system. (Standing Committee on On 1 May, the House of Olympic Committee and vacancies 13. Currently, 45% of of sexual harassment. burden related to the • On 20 March, Hon. Ralph Namely, it specifies that Access to Information, Commons passed a motion, for Commonwealth Games Senators are women. Furthermore, on 8 May 2018, internal governance of the Goodale, MP, Minister victims of service offences Privacy and Ethics); sponsored by Charlie Angus, Canada. Mr Singh announced that Naskapi. of Public Safety and have a right to information, • Building an Inclusive MP, requesting a papal apology • Hon. Robert Black, a Changes in the House of the NDP had appointed an • Bill C-25, Act to amend Emergency Preparedness, protection, participation and Canada: Bringing the for the ’s role in long-time leader in the Commons independent investigator the Canada Business introduced Bill C-71, An Act restitution. Immigration and Refugee the abuses of the Indigenous agricultural community On 1 March, seven of the Bloc to examine allegations of Corporations Act, the to amend certain Acts and Protection Act in Step with residential school system. In and former Chief Executive Quebecois’s ten MPs quit the inappropriate conduct made Canada Cooperatives Regulations in relation to Committee Hearings and Modern Values (Standing March 2018, Pope Francis had Officer of the Rural Ontario party over internal divisions. against Christine Moore, MP. Act, the Canada Not-for- firearms. Among a number Reports Committee on Citizenship issued a statement that he Institute. On 9 May, Rhéal Fortin, MP, During the investigation, Ms profit Corporations Act, of reforms, the Bill would Amid ongoing conversations and Immigration); could not personally respond On 15 March, another announced the name of their new Moore’s caucus duties, including and the Competition Act, require gun retailers to about the #MeToo movement • Reaching Canadians with to the Truth and Reconciliation vacancy in Ontario was filled federal party, Quebec Debout. participation on parliamentary which reforms some keep records of inventory on Parliament Hill, on 23 April, Effective Government Commission’s request for an with the appointment of: He said the party will no longer committees, were suspended. aspects of the process and sales for at least the House of Commons Advertising (Standing apology. • Hon. , promote Quebec separatism On 10 May, NDP member for electing directors 20 years. Furthermore, Standing Committee on Committee on Government academic, lawyer and at the federal level, and instead Kennedy Stewart, MP, of certain corporations C-71 expands the scope Human Resources, Skills Operations and Estimates); Changes in the Senate long-time advocate for focus on representing Quebec’s announced his resignation and cooperatives of background checks and Social Development and • Comparative Study on On 16 February 2018, the Indigenous health care. interest in Parliament. in order to run for mayor of and modernizes on those who wish to the Status of Persons with Services to Veterans Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Justin Senator Boyer is the first On 2 May, Conservative Vancouver, British Columbia. communications purchase a firearm from Disabilities presented its in Other Jurisdictions Trudeau, MP, announced the the first Indigenous person Member, Gord Brown, MP, between corporations or five years preceding a reports on Bill C-65. Bill C-65 appointment of two Senators died suddenly of a heart attack

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THIRD READING: BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA THIRD READING: AUSTRALIA Employment Standards Amendment Act, term miscarriages. In response, the Minister of from all sides of the House. The Leader Treasury Laws Amendment (Banking appropriate. These new powers will ensure at the big banks to account, to make their 2018 Labour stated that these circumstances were of the Third Party, Andrew Weaver, MLA, Executive Accountability and Related APRA can more easily respond where an decisions transparent and to put in place a On 12 April 2018, the Legislative Assembly not included in the amending Bill, however, also encouraged government to extend Measures) Act 2018 accountable person has failed to comply with punitive measures regime to actually see that of British Columbia passed Bill 6, the further legislative changes are pending, once a presumptions to all workers. He pointed to The legislation establishes the Banking their accountability obligations, while ensuring they follow through with that accountability, Employment Standards Amendment Act, review of the Employment Standards Act by the 911 dispatchers and call receivers, nurses, Executive Accountability Regime (BEAR). The appropriate external oversight.” then it really is nothing but a fig leaf. I will admit 2018. The purpose of the amendments is to B.C. Law Institute concludes. and teachers as examples of other workers BEAR will introduce a rigorous and transparent For ADIs, the legislation introduces that it is the opening of a door - a crack in the enhance job-protected leave provisions. Unpaid who experience traumatic events as a result of accountability regime applying to executives substantial new civil penalties, of up to $210 edifice of the neoliberalism of the coalition. It’s maternity leave may begin 13 weeks before the Workers Compensation Amendment Act, their occupation, and further noted the impact working in authorised deposit taking institutions million for large ADIs, $52.5 million for medium- only slight, and it’s not going to fix the cultural expected birth date (up from 11 weeks), while 2018 systemic harassment, bullying and abusive (ADIs). This was called for in the wake of the sized ADIs and $10.5 million for small ADIs, issues that we see at the big banks, that many entitlements for parental leave increased to 61 The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia work environments have on workers as well. scandal prone Australian banking and financial where an institution breaches any requirements Senators know all too well and that Greg consecutive weeks and compassionate care passed Bill 9, Workers Compensation The B.C. Nurses’ Union, attending the sector which has been rocked by systemic of the BEAR that relate to prudential matters. Medcraft, the ex-head of ASIC, the Australian leave increased to 27 weeks. In addition, Bill 6 Amendment Act, 2018, on 17 April 2018. One union’s annual convention in Vancouver, misconduct and poor treatment of customers. Senator Hon. Doug Cameron (Australian Securities and Investments Commission, introduces new, unpaid job-protected leaves amendment provides for a new mental-disorder organized a march on 3 May to demand that The Treasurer, Hon. Scott Morrison, Labor Party) noted that while Labor was talked about ad nauseam in his time at ASIC. for the parent of a child who disappears as the presumption for correctional officers, emergency nursing be included as an eligible occupation. MP, commented that it was essential to supportive of the legislation it was highly It’s not going to fix the cultural problems, but result of a crime (up to 52 weeks), and for the medical assistants (paramedics), firefighters, In response, the Labour Minister clarified that have a financial system that was not just critical of the government for resisting calls it is the opening of a door that we can exploit parent of a child who dies (up to 104 weeks). police officers and sheriffs. If one of these the legislation was crafted in such a way that unquestionably strong but also one that for a Royal Commission into the banking and today in this chamber in this Parliament to take During a Second Reading debate, Hon. workers develops a mental disorder, such as post- other categories can be added through a operates with the utmost integrity. Mr Morrison financial sector. Senator Cameron stated that a big step in fixing the problems.” Harry Bains, Minister of Labour, explained traumatic stress disorder, it will be presumed to be simple regulatory change, rather than additional stated that “over recent years, the system has “the government fought Labor’s calls for a Royal that the amendments update employment due to the nature of their occupation; the worker legislative amendments. not always met these expectations. Time and Commission for over 600 days. They threw up Treasury Laws Amendment (Putting standards to reflect the changing nature of will then be eligible for workers compensation time again we’ve seen scandals demonstrate all sorts of distractions. They ignored the stories Consumers First–Establishment of workplaces in British Columbia. He also noted benefits without having to prove the disorder Public Service Amendment Act, 2018 that some in the system are more invested in of Australians being wronged. They ignored the Australian Financial Complaints that the amendments to maternity leave, parental is job-related. Bill 9 also extends the existing On 17 April 2018, the Legislative Assembly their own interests than those of their customers victims. They ignored whistleblowers and they Authority) Act 2018 leave and compassionate care leave align with presumption of cancer as an occupational of British Columbia passed Bill 13 to and the community they are supposed to serve.” ignored bank staff. Instead, this government The legislation introduces a new external changes made to federal employment insurance disease for a municipal firefighter to a firefighter amend the Public Service Act to implement The Australian Prudential Regulation offered a confected and piecemeal response dispute resolution scheme, known as the benefits in 2016 and 2017. employed by the government of Canada on a recommendation 27 of the Ombudsperson’s Authority (APRA) will be provided with more to problems in the banks. Then, as we all Australian Financial Complaints Authority The Official Opposition critic for Labour, military base in the province. April 2017 report, Misfire: The 2012 Ministry of powers to ensure that bank directors and know, on 30 November last year, in one of (AFCA), to resolve disputes with products and John Martin, MLA, expressed his support During a Second Reading debate, Hon. Health Employment Terminations and Related executives are held to an especially high the biggest backflips of all, the Prime Minister services provided by financial firms. for the Bill, particularly the changes proposed Harry Bains, Minister of Labour, described the Matters. That recommendation called for the standard of accountability. The Treasurer and the Treasurer begrudgingly capitulated. The Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister, for individuals to deal with the loss of a child. legislative changes as being about fairness and Merit Commissioner, an independent officer of explained that “ADIs will be required to register Labor is pleased that the Prime Minister finally Senator Hon. James McGrath, commented At Committee stage, he asked questions support for workers who experience traumatic the legislature responsible for monitoring the their accountable persons with APRA and bowed to pressure from Labor on a Royal that the new one-stop dispute resolution concerning the length of job-protected leave events as part of their job. He also pointed out application of the principle of merit-based hiring, clearly allocate responsibilities to accountable Commission. And I for the parent of a child who died. that the amendments represent a first step to assume a new responsibility for the review of persons via accountability statements and note, while I’m at it, the The Leader of the Third Party, Andrew towards providing more support to other workers just-cause dismissals in the public service. accountability maps. These steps will provide work that was done Weaver, MLA, inquired whether this new who experience occupational stress disorders. During a Second Reading debate, Hon. clarity of responsibilities and ensure that APRA by the National Party, provision covered cases of stillbirths and late- The amending legislation received support Carole James, Minister of Finance, explained has greater visibility of the most senior persons especially by a Senator that Bill 13 will give the Merit Commissioner in ADI groups in order to more easily assign across the way there the responsibility to: provide oversight of public accountability should there be a breach of the who said a banking service termination policies and practices; BEAR obligations.” Royal Commission conduct independent reviews of just-cause Mr Morrison noted that where an was needed. Senator termination processes; and report publicly on accountable executive does not meet their Williams was so the results of these reviews. She stated that this obligations then “ADIs will be required to defer important in this will help ensure adherence to the appropriate minimum amounts of their accountable persons’ approach, and I’m glad, policies, practices and standards, as well as variable remuneration for a period of four years. Senator Williams, that identify any systemic issues. The amount to be deferred will vary with the you’ve finally - along In response, the Official Opposition critic size of the ADI, so that smaller ADIs will not be with Labor - forced your for Finance, Shirley Bond, MLA, commended disproportionately impacted in their ability to Prime Minister to do the the government for implementing the attract senior talent.” right thing.” Ombudsperson’s recommendation 27, stating In addition, “APRA will be able to disqualify Senator Peter that the additional level of oversight is to the an accountable person directly, without needing Wish-Wilson benefit of the public service; however, she had to apply to the Federal Court. Importantly, (Australian Greens) questions about additional resources for the given the significance of such a decision for an commented that “if Office of the Merit Commissioner to manage individual’s career and livelihood, accountable this legislation before this new responsibility. persons will be able to seek merits review and us today is to hold judicial review of APRA’s decisions, which is senior executives

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body, AFCA, will “ensure consumer backgrounds. It will On 8 May, the Treasurer, Hon. overwhelming majority of this that consumers and small be funded by industry.” Scott Morrison, MP, delivered cost commences in 2019-20, businesses have access to The Shadow Assistant a budget designed to shore the same year the Budget is TREASURER DELIVERS ELECTION BUDGET free, fast and binding dispute Minister for Treasury, Hon. up the government ahead forecast to return to balance.” In response to the Budget, that you’re losing $70 in penalty year. But tonight, I’m pleased nurse on $40,000 to pay the resolution.” Senator McGrath Matt Thistlethwaite, MP, of the next federal election The cost of the tax cuts over the Leader of the Opposition, rates from your Sunday pay. to announce that a Labor same tax rate as a doctor on noted that the initiative “forms commented that while Labor due sometime in the next 12 the next seven years is $140 Hon. Bill Shorten, MP, This Prime Minister is so out of government will go further $200,000 or for a cleaner to pay part of the Government’s supports the proposal it is months. The key measure, billion. This is in addition to commented that “we can do touch. He thinks that, if you get and do better on tax cuts for the same tax rate as a CEO? broader commitment to “another reform from the designed to generate support, the government’s proposal to better than this, the people of $10 a week, you’ll be fine with working-class and middle- How can it be fair that, under ensuring that the banks and government that was aimed at is the phasing in of a series of reduce the company tax rate Australia deserve better than the banks getting a $17 billion class Australians. Tonight, I’m this tax experiment, the doctor other financial institutions avoiding a Royal Commission tax cuts from 2018-19 through from 30% to 25% at a cost of this and a Labor government will giveaway.” pleased to advise that in our earns five times as much as are held to account when into the banking and financial to longer term cuts by 2024-25 $80 billion. However, there is deliver better than this - better The Labor Opposition first budget we will deliver a the nurse but his tax cut is they fail to meet community services sector in Australia.” designed to deal with bracket not wide public support for than 10 years of cuts to schools had previously announced bigger, better and fairer tax 16 times bigger? Today, new expectations.” Mr Thistlethwaite noted that creep. The first phase of the the company tax cuts and, so and hospitals in exchange for a series of tax reforms that cut for 10 million working research has revealed that, Senator McGrath stated the legislation purports to apply tax cuts will be targeted at far, the government has not $10 a week. Ten dollars a week! would save about $220 billion Australians - almost double, under this plan, $6 in every $10 that “external dispute the powers of the SCT into low to middle income earners. been able to get support in the That’s all that the Liberals think which would mean that it could in fact, what the government will go to the wealthiest 20% of resolution (EDR) plays a critical AFCA. Mr Thistlethwaite stated, Those earning up to $37,000 Senate to pass the necessary it will take for you to forgive and better the government’s tax offered on Tuesday. This Australians. Very quickly, this role in providing consumers however, that this “will result in will have their tax reduced by legislation. It is a clear point forget. They think that for $10 plan and it did just that. Mr is our pledge to 10 million is looking like another mates’ and small businesses with reduced consumer protections up to $200 in the first year. For of difference with the Labor you’ll forget they tried to put up Shorten stated that “our plan working Australians: under rates tax plan from the Liberal access to an alternative, out- for superannuation disputes, 4.4 million tax payers with an Opposition which opposes the your taxes last year, that for $10 begins with a better and fairer Labor you will pay less income Party.” of-court, dispute resolution and that’s the issue Labor has income between $48,000 and company tax cuts. you won’t care about the cuts to tax system. After years of flat tax because I think that you The Leader of the Australian service, to hear and determine with the government’s proposal. $90,000, they will receive the The government has your child’s school, that for $10 wages, rising power bills and are more important than Greens, Senator Richard their complaints about financial The SCT was a specialised maximum tax relief of $530 been able to offer taxation you’ll forgive waiting for elective increasing health costs under multinationals, big banks and Di Natale stated that “rarely firms. The Government tribunal with specialised which amounts to about $10 a relief because of an overall surgery at Australia’s hospitals the government, it is a time big business.” do budgets give us such is committed to having a members who were able to week. For those earning above improvement in the state of and that for $10 you won’t mind for a fair dinkum tax cut for Mr Shorten explained stark choices about what world class financial dispute hear complaints regarding $90,000 the tax relief reduces the Budget because of higher if your Internet’s no good or your middle-class and working- that Labor could afford this kind of future we want for our resolution system.” Senator superannuation issues from to zero at just over $125,000. than expected revenue. The local TAFE is closing or your class Australians. I’ve already because “we are not giving $80 country, but this one surely McGrath advised that “AFCA members and others who work Australia has a progressive Treasurer noted that in “2017- daughter can’t find a place at said that Labor will support billion to big business and the does. We have a clear choice will replace the Financial in this area, in a timely fashion personal taxation system 18, the Budget deficit will be uni. They think that, if you get the government’s modest tax big four banks and because between the Liberals’ selfish, Ombudsman Service (FOS), with expert advice, ensuring that comprising five tax brackets. $18.2 billion, less than half what $10 a week, you won’t notice cuts, starting on 1 July this we have already made hard dog-eat-dog worldview or a the Credit and Investments resolutions could be reached. During the next five years, the it was just two years ago. This choices for budget repair: more caring society where we Ombudsman (CIO) and the We believe it’s disingenuous plan is to increase the levels at will be the best budget outcome creating a level playing field for look after each other. Under Superannuation Complaints for the government to try and which tax cuts in. In particular, since the Howard Government’s first home buyers by reforming the Government’s radical Tribunal (SCT), and will reduce shut down this SCT scheme the 37% bracket will be last budget a decade ago. The negative gearing and capital US-style tax plan, a hedge the unnecessary duplication because of delays in the abolished completely so that deficit will fall again to $14.5 gains; cracking down on tax fund manager on $200,000 and consumer confusion that resolution of its complaints Australians earning more than billion in 2018-19.” minimisation by eliminating gets 10 times the tax cut as the has been characteristic of the when we know that the $41,000 all the way to $200,000 In particular, Mr Morrison income splitting in discretionary person who trims the hedges current framework.” government has cut funding will pay 32.5 cents in the dollar. commented that “the Budget is trusts, without affecting around his mansion. We have Importantly for consumers, and has cut staff to the SCT, This measure will take effect forecast to return to a modest our farmers; and ending a progressive tax system in “AFCA will have higher leaving it in a precarious from 2024-25. balance of $2.2 billion in 2019- unsustainable tax refunds for Australia but now we have a monetary limits and position in terms of the The Treasurer stated 20 and to projected surpluses people who currently pay no fight ahead of us to keep it. compensation caps than those effectiveness and efficiency of that “under the Turnbull of $11.0 billion in 2020-21 and income tax, while protecting This Government has spent of FOS and CIO, and will its work. These changes risk Government’s personal tax $16.6 billion in 2021-22.” pensioners and charities. At five years looking after the maintain the SCT’s unlimited losing some of that expertise plan most working Australians The Budget has been the next election there will be needs of big corporations, and monetary jurisdiction for that currently exists in the SCT.” earning above $41,000 are in deficit for almost ten a very clear choice on tax: 10 now they’re looking after the superannuation complaints. likely to never face a higher years which has resulted in million Australians will pay less executives who run them. A The new monetary limits marginal tax rate through significant debt. The Treasurer income tax under Labor, and few extra bucks in your pocket and compensation caps are their entire working life. advised that “with the budget we can afford to cut the taxes at tax time are not enough to double and, in the case of Bracket creep will be no returning to balance we will of 10 million Australians without offset decades of privatisation small business credit facility more for them. The top tax start paying down debt. We cutting services, because unlike and the harsh cuts to services disputes, almost triple the limits threshold will be adjusted have reached the turning point the Liberals we are not wasting this Government has already and caps currently in place.” to $200,000, to account on debt. Net debt will now peak $80 billion on a discredited made. This budget proves Senator McGrath noted that for inflation and expected at 18.6% of GDP this year, in corporate tax giveaway to the once and for all that large “AFCA will be a not-for-profit wage movements over the 2017-18, and will fall by around top end of town.” corporations and the super- company governed by a board next seven years. The plan is $30 billion over the forward In relation to the rich have rigged the rules for comprised of an independent affordable and it is funded. estimates. Over the medium- government’s proposal to themselves. And while they are chair and equal numbers of The total revenue impact term net debt will fall to 3.8% abolish the 37.5% tax bracket, profiting from our community directors with industry and on the Budget and forward of GDP by 2028-29 - more than Mr Shorten stated that “how and our environment, the rest of estimates is $13.4 billion. The $230 billion.” on earth can it be fair for a us pay for it.”

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Food Safety Law Reform Bill Mr Gareth Hughes, MP (Green) raised centrepiece of the Bill … is a set of measures The Third Reading of the Food Safety Law the issue of country-of-origin labelling, saying designed to make the process of interacting THIRD READING: NEW ZEALAND Reform Bill was moved on 20 February by the that “while it was ruled out of scope of the with the tax system as simple as possible.” Leader of the House, Hon. , MP legislation, I would point out that almost half of This aspect, initiated during the previous in front of us, often at the last minute … it is The Bill passed its Third Reading with 63 a number of submitters on the Bill called for, (Labour), on behalf of his colleague the Minister the total submissions were calling for this.” parliamentary term, was supported on both intended to be something that corrects errors, votes to 57. Mr Little noted that “this would go beyond the for Food Safety, Hon. Damien O’Connor, MP Mr Ian McKelvie, MP (National) explained sides of the House. Hon. MP adjusts drafting, and picks up little tidy-ups that purpose of the scheme, which is to prevent (Labour). The Leader of the House’s speech, the importance of the Bill, noting that “Of (National) said, “this was … an extremely good haven’t been picked up through the course Criminal Records (Expungement of further negative effects from the stigma of having been interrupted within its first minute, course, food contamination is absolutely the Bill, based … around the fabulous Business of legislation. What it’s not intended to be is a Convictions for Historical Homosexual conviction. There’s no general principle that a was subsequently completed on 22 February most important factor that affects New Zealand’s Transformation project that the National-led significant change in the taxation settings that Offences) Bill person who’s convicted of a repealed offence by the Minister himself. ability to export to the world. So this Bill is hugely Government approved of, funded, and worked affect New Zealanders.” Members protested The Criminal Records (Expungement of is entitled to compensation on the repeal of the Opposition Members raised a point of order important, and while it might seem at times a little with the Inland Revenue Department on so that the lost opportunity for consideration and Convictions for Historical Homosexual offence.” He also added that “the Committee to seek clarification on the unusual procedure, pedantic, there’s a very good reason for that.” the whole collection of tax would become far consultation by the Select Committee. Offences) Bill passed its Third Reading on acknowledged that it was too complex a task to with Assistant Speaker, Ms Poto Williams, Mr , MP (Labour) said of the more modern and in keeping with the way in Hon. Paul Goldsmith, MP (National) 3 April 2018 with unanimous support in the not only set up a process where every individual MP (Labour) ruling that Mr O’Connor could botulism scare that prompted the introduction of which most people conduct their businesses, commented: “One of the advantages we have House. The Bill sought to implement a process has their personal circumstances considered in complete the speech started by Mr Hipkins on the Bill: “It was a major scare that not only rippled and far more suitable for the 21st century.” as a small developed nation is that because of for the expungement of historical homosexual the process of achieving an expungement but his behalf, given that “The Minister in charge all the way through, obviously, initially, the dairy Following consideration by the Finance and our compact nature and the closeness of our offences, the effect of expungement being then to consider whether compensation ought of a Bill must move a motion in relation to the industry but had wider implications, of course, Expenditure Select Committee, the Labour- democracy, we have the opportunity to actually that the convicted person would no longer to be payable and, if so, how much.” Bill and may speak in support of the motion. across our whole food sector and our food Government released two engage effectively with the industries which we be required to disclose the offence to any However, Mr Raymond Huo, MP (Labour) Because this must happen in order for a Bill to industries, which are major exporters …” papers proposing amendments to the Bill, or regulate through Parliament.” person for any reason. The Bill came about pointed out that “Clause 22 of the Bill does not be debated, it is permissible for another Member The Minister of Customs, Hon. Meka Supplementary Order Papers (SOPs). One Mr Nash argued that consultation had following a petition created by Mr Wiremu limit other measures under the New Zealand Bill to act on behalf of an absent Member.” Whaitiri, MP (Labour), added that the Bill of these SOPs met no opposition. Hon. Amy already occurred: “So this isn’t something we’ve Demchick and signed by 2,111 others calling of Rights Act 1990, which protects the individual’s The Food Safety Law Reform Bill had been “makes the obligation in the Act to have Adams, MP (National) said, “The Minister’s just sprung on the people of New Zealand. We for both an apology to those convicted of such right to issue civil proceedings against .” introduced and advanced to the Committee traceability systems more explicit.” SOP 16, I regard as largely a technical went to the election with it. We also debated it at offences prior to 1986 and for a process by Hon. , MP (Labour) of the Whole House stage by the previous The Bill passed its Third Reading on a Supplementary Order Paper and again, while Select Committee. So when the Member says which those convictions could be overturned. spoke on a more personal level: “I say ‘I’m National Government and was reinstated by voice vote on 22 February 2018. there’ll be questions for the Minister to answer this hasn’t had a proper hearing from the New Parliament made its apology on 6 July 2017, sorry’ as a man who has been able to live my life the new Labour–New Zealand First coalition in respect of that, we are broadly supportive.” Zealand people, it actually has.” delivered by the then Minister of Justice, Hon. relatively freely as a homosexual male, a person government. Mr O’Connor explained that the The Taxation (Annual Rates for 2017-18, The other SOP made changes to the The second argument put forward by , MP (National). who’s able to come to this Parliament and omnibus Bill “amends the Food Act, the Animal Employment and Investment Income, brightline test for the taxation of residential Opposition Members was that the five-year Moving the Third Reading of the Bill on 3 get heckled and abused by the National Party Products Act and the Wine Act to address the and Remedial Matters) Bill land, proposing to extend the period of that threshold would reach a range of transactions April 2018, the Minister in charge of the Bill, the because I’m the Finance Minister, not because remaining issues raised by the whey protein The Taxation (Annual Rates for 2017-18, test from two to five years. Mr Nash explained that were unlikely to have the same intention. Minister of Justice, Hon. Andrew Little, MP I’m a gay man.” He also mentioned that more concentrate - WPC, it was known as - inquiry.” Employment and Investment Income, and that the Government “just did not feel that two Ms Adams said: “At two years, there is a body (Labour) stated: “The Bill sends a clear signal work is yet to be done: “Not every school in our He further noted that “the previous Government Remedial Matters) Bill passed its Third Reading years was enough to stop speculators gaining of evidence that suggests the likelihood that that discrimination against homosexual people is country is a safe place if you are gay or lesbian committed to implement all thirty-eight on 27 March 2018. As well as including the untapped capital gains.” people buying and selling within two years are no longer acceptable and that we are committed or bisexual or transgender or intersex. Not every recommendations of the WPC inquiry, which annual provision setting the rates of income tax, Opposition Members opposed the second more likely than not to be speculating. After to putting right the wrongs from the past.” community in New Zealand is a safe place.” was set up after the Fonterra botulism false this omnibus Bill made a number of substantive SOP on two primary grounds. Ms Adams two years, there is a far less likelihood that that In subsequent speeches, Members This was echoed by Hon. , alarm of 2013. Most of the recommendations adjustments to taxation legislation. argued that the form was inappropriate for is the case …” Ms Collins added, “We already reflected on these past wrongs, with Ms Jan MP (National), who said “we’ve still got a have already been addressed ... The Bill sits The Minister of Revenue, Hon. Stuart such a change: “a Supplementary Order have a provision in the Income Tax Act that Logie, MP (Green) explaining, “It was the long way to go to build a more tolerant and alongside these and other multiple operational Nash, MP (Labour), outlined that “The Paper is something that is tabled in the House allows, in the sale of a property, for a tax on any parliaments of the early 1900s that introduced accepting society.” actions taken since the WPC80 inquiry.” gain in the value of that property if the purpose or legalised homophobia in this country. Those Several Members commented on the Mr Mark Patterson, MP (New Zealand was, in fact, to buy the property for gain.” laws overrode indigenous laws which held that length of time it took for this legislation to First) said the Select Committee process Mr David Seymour, MP (Leader, ACT) both same-sex attraction and diverse gender arrive, with Mr Darroch Ball, MP (New had “had a very big impact on that Bill and the differed from other Opposition Members and identities and expressions were natural. That Zealand First) noting, “I think it’s one of those shaping of this regulation and some of the argued against the brightline test in any form: was the status quo before the Government Bills where it has been somewhat unfortunate going forward. So I think it does show that “Let’s not listen to the braying from the National introduced legislation to legalise homophobia that it has taken so long to ride its natural this House and this Parliament are working as Party who find themselves in this absurd and hatred, so it is our job to remove the harm course, even before its consideration, with the we would hope for such an important piece position of arguing that a two-year brightline from the laws that were created by this place petition being presented some thirty-odd years of legislation, that all views were taken into test is not a capital gains test but a five-year and to apologise, because it was harm that we after the law decriminalising homosexuality.” account and reflected.” brightline test somehow is … If you don’t like created from this House.” However, all Members praised the Hon. , MP (National) also oak trees, then don’t plant acorns, because Mr Chris Bishop, MP (National) collaborative, bipartisan spirit in which the commended the Select Committee process: “I taxes are like acorns: they grow.” commented: “It’s thirty-two years since Bill was progressed through the House, with acknowledge everyone that submitted: that was Mr , MP (Deputy Leader, homosexual law reform … it’s hard for people of Mr , MP (National) stating, the big end of industry in New Zealand and a lot of New Zealand First) said: “It wasn’t a capital gains my age and generation to get their heads around “Tonight is one of those rare opportunities small, niche producers as well. This Bill, and the tax then. No, no, when they [the previous National the vitriol and the hate and the anger and the where we in Parliament come together to right regulations that follow, actually combine a huge Government] introduced it, it was a brightline test, sense of controversy at the time.” He added, a wrong.” amount of work that underpins a lot of investment and they vehemently denied any argument that “New Zealand has come a long way since 1986.” The Bill received Royal Assent on 9 April and us as a producing nation of food.” this was a capital gains tax.” Regarding the issue of compensation, which 2018.

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THIRD READING: SRI LANKA SRI LANKA PRESIDENT ADDRESSES CEREMONIAL OPENING OF PARLIAMENT President Maithripala and the ruling party must political culture with political issue. “Since we gained International Convention for the as the next of kin of the disappeared persons unnecessarily in the affairs of Sri Lanka. He Sirisena presided over also cease. Any kind of power leaders with good values, good independence, this country Protection of All Persons from Enforced lives in constant anxiety without knowing the stated that this legislation does include the the ceremonial sitting of struggle will only cause the personality, a good image as has been ruled by the two Disappearance Bill fate of the disappeared person. Sri Lanka armed forces who fought in the war to eradicate Parliament for opening of people despair,” President well as discipline. These are major political parties. From This Bill was introduced in the Sri Lanka would become a law-abiding country in the the LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam) in the second session of the 8th Sirisena pointed out. the qualities an exemplary that a one party ruled this Parliament on 7 March 2017 by the Prime world if it was able to effectively punish the keeping with the policies of the government – Parliament of the Democratic He also said that the role of political leader must have. country for 35 years. The other Minister, Hon. Ranil Wickremasinghe. The offenders involved in past disappearances however any persons who acted excessively Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka the Opposition as well as the Now that we have laid the main political party ruled this purpose of the Bill is to give effect to the and to ensure that there are no future against unarmed civilians or unarmed on 8 May 2018. approaches of the political allies foundation for the new political country for 32 years. I would International Convention for the Protection of disappearances in the country. combatants have to be punished. The Secretary-General in the coalition government culture in our country which kindly request all of you to All Persons from Enforced Disappearance to Hon. , MP (UNP) Hon. Karuanarathne Paranavitharana, of Parliament read out the should undergo change. the general public and local give me your assistance in which Sri Lanka became a signatory in 2015. stated that lots of people went missing during MP, Deputy Minister of Skills Development and proclamations issued by In his statement, President scholars and intellectuals, as my determined effort to build The Second Reading of the Bill was held on 7 1971, 1988 and 1989 due to civil conflicts Vocational Training also stated that a wrong the President proroguing Sirisena called for a social well as those who are abroad consensus among political March 2018. including many journalists, and political activists. impression had been created by certain groups Parliament and summoning friendly, people-oriented anticipated. I request Sri parties instead of blaming each Hon. , MP, the Minister of This had led to Sri Lanka having a bad reputation of people that the Bill is aimed at punishing the the meeting and the President economy instead of ‘crony Lankan intellectuals dispersed other for their particular doings Foreign Affairs started the Second Reading in the eyes of the world. He welcomed the security forces who fought to defeat the civil subsequently addressed the capitalism’. He also urged for a around the country and abroad during their respective regimes debate and stated that this Bill was drafted legislation as it upholds many human rights war. He stated that, in fact, we have to consider Members of Parliament. political vision that recognizes to use your expertise and skills and increasing political rivalry. in conformity with the international obligation principles though some are trying to portray that this Act as an instrument to avoid the future Commencing his address, the political heartbeat of the to develop the motherland From now on, keeping with to enact a municipal law as the Sri Lankan the legislation would punish the security forces occurrence of any civil war in Sri Lanka. the President, Maithripala public. “This political vision in this consensual political this consensual politics as Government had ratified the convention and and the political leaders of this country. Hon. , MP (UPFA) Sirisena told the Sri Lanka should uphold our values, environment. My Government the foundation between the signed it. Hon. , MP stated criticised the legislation by stating that if the Parliament that the last culture and our inheritance”, will establish a special two main political parties, I He pointed out that any public officer who that the offences mentioned in this Act are Bill is enacted as an Act in Sri Lanka then any three years demonstrated President Sirisena pointed out. bureau under my directive to request from all the political does the following: already considered as offences under Penal court in any country, which is a signatory of the that the country is still At the start of his speech, coordinate the expatriate Sri parties represented in the • arrests or detains any person Code. He suggested that the necessary convention, could file a case against the armed lacking in political and social the President briefed MPs on Lankans who wish to return Parliament and all the people’s • refuses to acknowledge the arrest amendments could be made to the Penal Code forces of Sri Lanka. maturity needed to realise the key pieces of legislation to the motherland and we will representatives in Parliament, • conceals such an arrest or detention to include the new offences indicated in the Hon. Dr Jayampathi Wickramaratne, MP the objectives of a coalition and achievements recorded offer a red carpet welcome to to pay their attention to find • fails to disclose information about such Bill, such as ‘not acknowledging the wrongful (UNP) commended the Bill and stated that government. by the government in the last them. I would like remind them the ways and means as to how arrest or detention detention or kidnapping of a person or secretly since Sri Lanka is a dualist country it has to Making his policy statement, three years. He made these that now it is time for us to work we could use this consensus Any such person shall be guilty of the detaining any person’. He also pointed out that enact municipal laws in order to implement the lasting thirty-five minutes, at observations with reference to in unity for the betterment of the among all political groups offence of enforced disappearance. They this Bill does not clearly state that ‘extradition’ International conventions for which the country is the inauguration of the new criticisms levelled against the country, casting side political and the present emerging could be punished with imprisonment for a provisions do not apply to citizens of Sri Lanka a signatory. He also stated that this Bill provides session of Parliament, the efficiency of the government. differences.” good political culture for the term not exceeding twenty years and also be and it is better to have a provision in this regard not only for penalties but covers vast areas which President said the power President Sirisena observed Finally, the President betterment and progress of our liable to pay a fine not exceeding one million to remove the ambiguity. cannot be incorporated into the Penal Code. struggle in government and that 18 economic related Bills emphasised on one country.” rupees. Such public officer shall also be liable Hon. Rajavarothiam Sampanthan, MP, The Bill was passed on the 7 March 2018 in political parties in the last were passed during the last to pay compensation not less than five hundred Leader of the Opposition, stated that the law fills and the Speaker endorsed his certificate on 21 three years had driven people three years that mainly focus thousand rupees to any victim. a vacuum that has existed in the Sri Lanka legal March 2018. The Act came into effect from the to despair. Even though on managing the enormous He further stated that if any person, who system for a long time. He also pointed out that date of the certificate of the Speaker (i.e. from consensus governance is debts heaped on the shoulders is not a government official, illegally abducts some people had created a misinterpretation 21 March 2018). adopted in many countries of the present government or confines any person or fails to disclose that the international community is interfering around the world, it is yet a by the previous regime. The information of such a person shall also be liable foreign concept to Sri Lanka, President noted that the for the same fine and imprisonment. President Sirisena observed. public should not be exposed The Minister stressed that the provisions of He pointed out that the country to the direct impact of these the Bill do not have retrospective effect and the is not in a situation to fall heavy debts and urged for the enactment of this Act shows that Sri Lanka is a prey to power politics, but adoption of a strategic debt civilized nation. that it is in a position where a management approach. Hon. M. A. Sumanthiran, MP (ITAK) collective effort to overcome The President further added while appreciating the Government for this its challenges have become that “scholars and intellectuals legislation expressed his disappointment mandatory. of the country have pointed over the statement of the Minister, Hon. Tilak “If we are to overcome out a long time ago, that a Marapana who stated that the Bill does not the challenges faced by the new political culture should have retrospective effect which ensures that country, the power struggle be introduced in our country. the past offenders of enforced disappearance between the two main parties in I must recall that I came into will not be punished. He also stated that the the coalition government must power in January 2015 in nature of disappearance is worse than murder cease. The competition for keeping with that pledge. I am

power between the Opposition committed to create a new G. Nuwan Duminda. Images copyright: Sri Lanka Parliament/U.

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Reservation Bill, asked every man women are not getting complete Conference offered special implementation of policies to support the women to come up. rights and respect. opportunity to those Delegates and programmes. He further INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2018 MARKED IN Shri Sanjay Singh (AAP) In the Lok Sabha, Speaker, whose constituencies have said that in every State there called for a change in the Smt. Sumitra Mahajan greater possibilities and are a few districts where THE PARLIAMENT OF INDIA mindset towards women. congratulated the women of aspirations of development. development parameters International Women’s possibility of discrimination Smt. Rajani Patil (INC) supported reservation of seats Shri Harivansh (JD-U) India and of the whole world on The Prime Minister, Shri are strong. He called upon Day 2018 marked in the against the girl child. requested the Government to for women in State Assemblies wanted strict law to prevent the occasion of International Narendra Modi digitally delegates to learn from Parliament of India Time and again, women take steps to pass the Women and Lok Sabha. rape against women. Women’s Day. She said women inaugurated the Conference them and work on weaker On 8 March 2018, the Presiding have proved that they are Reservation Bill. Shri Derek O’brien (AITC) The Minister of External always carry their children and on 10 March in the Central districts. He felt that public Officers of both the Houses not only second to none in Smt. Sampatiya Uikey (BJP) informed that women MPs Affairs, Smt. Sushma Swaraj their culture together. Smt. Hall of Parliament House. Lok participation always helps and of the India Parliament made any field, but better than men said providing reservations for of his party constitute 34%. said women have become Mahajan asked women to be Sabha Speaker, Smt. Sumitra wherever officials have worked references to International in multi-tasking. Women women in three-tier local self Shri D. Raja (CPI) wanted the President, Prime Minister, positive, live with confidence Mahajan; Union Minister of with people and involved Women’s Day. The Vice- have made outstanding government bodies has helped Women Reservation Bill to be Speakers, Chief Minister of and self respect and contribute Parliamentary Affairs Shri them with the development President of India and the contributions in various women in taking up higher passed as early as possible. many States and Presidents of to nation building. Ananth Kumar; Lok Sabha process, the results have been Chairman, Rajya Sabha, Shri fields in the country. Be it responsibilities in society. Dr V. Maitreyan (AIADMK), many national parties in India. Deputy Speaker, Dr M. transformative. M. Venkaiah Naidu making a politics, poetry, sports or Smt. Chhaya Verma supporting the Women’s While these achievements National Legislators Thambi Durai; Union Cabinet Earlier, welcoming the reference in the Rajya Sabha business, women have (INC) said there should be Reservation Bill, suggested enable Indians to raise their Conference on Development Ministers, Chief Ministers, delegates to the Conference, said the International Women’s excelled whenever they reservation of seats for women electing a woman Deputy heads high, the injustice and During the Budget Session Union Ministers of State, Smt. Sumitra Mahajan Day is a day to celebrate had an opportunity. With in State Legislatures and Chairman for the House when pain of women make their at the Parliament of India, a Presiding Officers of State said that the inspiration and honour the untiring women constituting about Parliament and measures the vacancy arises in July 2018. heads hang in shame. The National Conference on the Legislatures, Members of for organizing this unique commitment and determination 50% of our population, should be taken to prevent Shri T.K. Rangarajan International Women’s Day is theme ‘We for Development’ Parliament, Members of State Conference was drawn from of ordinary women in India the social, economic and sexual violence against (CPI-M) asked for the strict a day to resolve not to tolerate was organized on 10 and 11 Legislatures and many other the developmental vision of and throughout the world to political empowerment of women. Smt. Wansuk Syiem enforcing of the law to prevent the kind of injustice and pain March 2018. The Conference, dignitaries were present on Prime Minister, Shri Narendra achieve equality, justice and women, including providing (INC) reiterated the demand the harassment of women being experienced by women. an initiative of the Lok Sabha the occasion. Modi. She said that though economic development. Two reservation of seats for for providing 33% reservation at workplace. Shri Satish The Minister of State in the Speaker, Smt. Sumitra Speaking on the occasion, the world community had set issues that need renewed women in Parliament and of seats for women and to end Chandra Misra (BSP) said Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs Mahajan, aimed to provide Prime Minister, Shri Narendra the year 2030 for attaining focus on this day are gender State Legislatures, has to atrocities against them. there must be a lady in the and the Minister of State of a platform to MPs, MLCs and Modi observed there are the targets of Sustainable equality and women’s safety. be accorded top priority for Smt. Viplove Thakur (INC) Panel of Vice Chairman. the Ministry of Statistics and MLAs from across the country several districts which are Development Goals (SDGs), Gender-sensitization should the country to achieve rapid pointing out the absence of Shri Majeed Memon (NCP) Programme Implementation, to share their experiences, lagging behind in development. yet the legislators should start in every household, progress, emphasized the woman on the ‘Panel of Vice- said the law-makers have a Shri Vijay Goel said it is not that to learn from each other’s He said that their problem endeavour to realize the Prime neighbourhood, school, Rajya Sabha Chairman. Chairmen’ asked for passing the great responsibility to ensure changes have not come about success stories, and to lies not in the paucity of the Minister’s vision of achieving th institutions and community and Smt. Ambika Soni (INC) Women Reservation Bill at the equal treatment for men and in the conditions of women. But develop a perspective on available resources or budget these targets in the 75 year mindset to respect girls and suggested the passing earliest. Smt. Kanimozhi (DMK) women. Dr Subramanian this transformation should reach developmental issues in outlays but in the governance, of India’s independence in women should be promoted of a resolution reiterating said women want to find their Swamy (BJP) said the tradition throughout the country wherever the light of the SDGs. The coordination and effective 2022 only to make India a at home and in schools, public commitment towards providing identity, their individuality and in the country is not to strong and developed nation. areas, public transport and at reservation of seats for women pursue their dreams and don’t discriminate against women Smt. Mahajan recalled that every place and every stage. in Union and State Legislatures. want to be celebrated for their or ill-treat them and there Parliament had already The problem of lower Smt. Renuka Chowdhury sacrifices. She also requested should be emphasis on their discussed the issue of SDGs female literacy rate has to be (INC) observed even after the government to pass the empowerment. on four different occasions. As addressed on a war-footing to seventy years of Independence, Women Reservation Bill. Shri V. Vijayasai Reddy such, it was high time that the educate and empower women. India is still struggling to provide Smt. Thota Seetharama (YSRCP) requested the State Legislatures also took a As far as curbing crimes against true independence to its women Lakshmi (TDP) said wherever government to consider and lead in proactively deliberating women is concerned, visible and the country is losing one per women are respected, that land amend the Hindu Succession on this important matter for all policing and patrolling has cent of GDP because of non- will be prosperous. Ms Anu Act and also other relevant round development. to be increased, particularly inclusion of women on level- Aga (Nominated) requested immoveable property Acts The Conference deliberated in desolate areas and during playing fields in work places. all men to treat women conferring the right over on the theme “We for nights. The change should Kumari Selja (INC) asked with respect and offer them property to the women. Development” in the Plenary begin at home and parents for the passing of a resolution opportunities. Smt. Roopa Shri K.T.S. Tulsi (Nominated) Session. Making a presentation should ensure that there is no supporting the Bill providing Ganguly (BJP) pleaded for the quoting his mother said woman on aspirational districts to the discrimination between a boy for reservation of seats for empowering of women. is not the property of man. Shri delegates, Shri Amitabh Kant, and a girl. Boys should be made women in Lok Sabha and State The Leader of the Tiruchi Siva (DMK) wanted the CEO, NITI Aayog said that to treat girls with respect and Legislative Assemblies. She Opposition, Shri Ghulam government to exempt sanitary although our country has made affection, while girls should wanted the Government to Nabi Azad (INC) was napkins from the GST net. significant progress in the not be made to feel inferior set up an Equal Opportunities confident that the government Shri Dilip Kumar Tirkey (BJD) economic sphere, yet India’s in any way. There cannot be Commission for Women as and the opposition would said women have contributed a lot ranking at 131 in the Human two opinions on the need to women are lagging behind in come together to build an for the country in all the sectors. Development Index (HDI) is eliminate even the remotest all walks of life. atmosphere where women are Shri Dharmapuri Srinivas a matter of great concern for safe and educated. He also (TRS), supporting the Women the nation. He said that there are inequalities and inequities Images: Parliament of India. Images: Parliament

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between and within the States for the development of their The Vice-President and Conference on the theme ‘We and districts. He highlighted constituency based on four key Chairperson, Rajya Sabha, for Development’, held in New that 115 aspirational districts areas: innovation, technology, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu said Delhi on 10 and 11 March 2018, have been identified in various entrepreneurship and research. that the Legislature is the do hereby: THIRD READING: INDIA States which are lagging He called upon the delegates central pillar of democratic • Commit ourselves to the behind in development and to learn new ways of finding governance. It is the voice of task of nation-building, The High Court and Supreme Court On the same analogy, it had been decided to courts has to be addressed urgently. their transformation into solutions to the problems the people and articulates and strive to bring in Judges (Salaries and Conditions of extend the similar benefit to all retired Judges. The Minister in-charge of the Bill replying developed districts will improve and to develop a model plan. their hopes, aspirations and inclusive and sustainable Service) Amendment Bill, 2018 Towards this end, the Government brought to the debates stated at the outset that the India’s HDI ranking. Thereafter, the Reports of the dreams through laws that development, and The salaries, allowances and pensions of the forward the High Court and Supreme Court judiciary plays a great role to strengthen Speaking at the Plenary, Working Sessions prepared govern their lives. As such, the • To inform and sensitize Judges of the Supreme Court and High Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) democracy and the country takes pride on the Shri Suresh Prabhu, Union by the Rapporteurs were legislatures are mandated with citizens about the were last revised with effect from 1 January Amendment Bill, 2018. As per the provisions of manner in which the judiciary upheld human Minister of Commerce presented. These reports the task of catalyzing nation developmental 2006, as per the High Court and Supreme Court the Amending Bill, the salaries of the Judges rights of people and of the underprivileged. The and Industry said that highlighted the issues, building by propelling socio- programmes, Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) were sought to be revised with effect from 1 real authority of a judge in India is the moral development requires both, concerns and suggestions economic transformation. proactively monitor their Amendment Act, 2009. The Seventh Central January 2016 as per following details: Chief authority. Insofar as backlog of vacancies human resources and natural given by the delegates from the Presenting the closing implementation, delivery Pay Commission recommended revision in the Justice of India — from Rs. 1,00,000/- per in the judiciary, the Minister stated that the resources which are plenty States in the North, South, East remarks, Lok Sabha Speaker mechanisms and utilization salaries and pensionary benefits of the Central month to Rs. 2,80,000/- per month; Judges Government have enhanced the number of in our country. Shri Prabhu and West Zones. Subsequently, Smt. Sumitra Mahajan said of resources, Government employees including the members of Supreme Court — from Rs. 90,000/- per High Court judges and lower court judges. said that resource efficiency at the Valedictory Session, the that development should be • To encourage people of All India Services. The Government had month to Rs. 2,50,000/- per month; Chief The Minister clarified that appointment in is the new mantra but in the Conference Resolution was sustainable and we should to actively participate accepted the majority of the recommendations Justice of High Court — from Rs. 90,000/- per Subordinate judiciary is done by the concerned coming years, we need to find adopted. have a continuous dialogue in governance issues, of the Commission and issued orders. The month to Rs. 2,50,000/- per month; Judges of High Court or upon the recommendation by resource alternative, resource Addressing the delegates with all stakeholders, development policies and revised pension rules had come into force on the the High Court — from Rs. 80,000/- per month the Public Service Commission and neither mobilization and resource at the Valedictory Session, including at the grassroots programmes, and 1st day of January 2016. to Rs. 2,25,000/- per month. the State Governments nor the Central optimization. He further said the Union Minister of Finance level. She further said that • Affirm to work tirelessly The need to increase the salaries, It had also been proposed to revise the rates Government have any power in this regard. that as legislators, we need Shri Arun Jaitley, referred we all have to be alert and to create a developed allowances and pension of the Judges of of House Rent Allowance with effect from 1 July The Minister also stated that the Government to create awareness among to GST as a successful create awareness among India where no region and the Supreme Court and the High Courts had 2017 and the rates of sumptuary allowance with have been expediting the disposal of cases first people about acceptability example of Centre-State people about the Government section is left behind’. been necessitated because of the increase effect from 22 September 2017. which are pending for ten years. The judges of laws and resources and cooperation in matters of schemes and policies so The Speaker, Lok Sabha, in the salaries, allowances and pensions Debate: During discussion on the Bill, had worked during vacations and had been district based planning. Later national importance. He also that benefits of development Smt. Sumitra Mahajan was also of the Central Government employees on proposals for enhancing salaries and working on Saturdays too. Finally, the Minister in the day, the Conference emphasized the need of trickle down to every nook instrumental in organizing a acceptance of the recommendations of the allowances of Judges of Supreme Court and stated that good work of the judiciary needs to took up discussions, in its exploring the feasibility of and corner of the country. two-day National Conference Seventh Central Pay Commission by the High Courts met with unanimous concurrence. be appreciated. Parallel Sessions, on the effective harmony between The following Resolution of Women Legislators on 5-6 Government. It was, therefore, felt necessary Certain views/observations and suggestions The Bill was passed by Lok Sabha on 4 themes (i) Role of Legislators the Centre and State in other was adopted: ‘WE, THE March 2016 on the theme of to increase suitably the existing pension and put forth by Members were as follows:- January 2018. As the Winter Session adjourned in Development Process, and areas such as agriculture, LEGISLATORS, assembled ‘Women Legislators: Building maximum pension of the Judges of the High • There is special importance of judiciary sine die on 5 January 2018, the Bill being (ii) Optimum Utilization of social justice, etc. at the National Legislators Resurgent India’. Courts and the Supreme Court. in the country and everyone holds the categorized as Money Bill, it was deemed to have Resources in Development. Based on the recommendations of the judiciary in high esteem. been passed by both Houses of Parliament on The delegates, divided in four Seventh Central Pay Commission, the Central • There are several vacancies of judges 20 January 2018 on expiration of 14 days of the groups (North, South, East Government had decided to grant additional which are lying vacant in High Courts which transmission of Bill to Rajya Sabha, in terms of and West Zones), shared quantum of pension and family pension need to be filled. There is also need for provisions of article 109(5) of the Constitution of their concerns and problems with reference to the age of the Central setting up benches of some High Courts. India. The Bill was assented to by the President relating to the development of Government pensioner and family pensioner. Further, pendency of cases in various of India on 25 January 2018. their constituencies. The delegates highlighted the need of participation of legislators at all levels, including grassroots level of development. Lok Sabha Speaker Smt. Sumitra Mahajan attended all the Sessions. The Concluding Session of the Conference was addressed by the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Shipping and Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Shri Nitin Jairam Gadkari. Addressing the gathering, he urged the legislators to have a strategy with a commitment Images: Parliament of India. Images: Parliament

156 | The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two | 157 PARLIAMENTARY REPORT INDIA INDIA

The Indian Forest (Amendment) Bill, 2017 bring in its entire business, forest cover, the bamboo is such a resilient species of The period of twelve weeks of maximum The Indian Forest Act, 1927 had been enacted positive movements associated with it through grass that it could be used as disaster risk maternity leave presently provided in section 2A of to consolidate the law relating to forests, the an amendment in sub-section 7 under the reduction resources. Hence, there is a the Act for the purpose of calculating continuous transit of forest-produce and the duty leviable section 2 of the parent Act. need to take a very holistic approach to service under the Act is on the basis of the period on timber and other forest-produce. The Minister further stated that bamboo actually redefine bamboo. of maximum maternity leave as provided in the The said Act, inter alia, in clause (7) of is a versatile and fast-growing crop. It also The Minister while replying to the debate Maternity Benefit Act, 1961. The maximum section 2 defined “tree”, which includes palms, contributed to strengthen household strategy at the outset explained the circumstances maternity leave under the Maternity Benefit Act, bamboos, stumps, brush-wood and canes. and food security. The Minister further which necessitated promulgation of the 1961 had been enhanced from twelve weeks The bamboo, though taxonomically a grass is observed that it was also essential to make Ordinance. Elaborating, the Minister stated to twenty-six weeks by the Maternity Benefit treated as tree for the purpose of the said Act, everything pertaining to bamboo growth in that there were problems which were being (Amendment) Act, 2017. It was, therefore, and therefore, attracts the requirement of a the non-forest areas easy for the people faced from all quarters. Everybody was proposed to empower the Central Government permit for transit under the said Act. Although, of the country to involve them, to give them supposed to take permission for felling and to enhance the period of existing twelve weeks to many States had exempted felling and transit of employment and security. transit of bamboo trees. It was often found such period as may be notified by it. various species of bamboos within the States, During the discussion, Members inter alia that neighbouring states had a different set The provisions contained in the Central Civil the inter-State movement of bamboos required observed that:- of rules, which make the problem of transit of Services (Pension) Rules, 1972 for Central a permit when being in transit through other • The amendment was necessary and bamboo much more complex. There was a Government employees with regard to gratuity States. The farmers had been facing hardships the reason being was that bamboo is need for some sort of harmony in the transit are similar to the provisions contained in the in getting the permits for felling and transit of grown by the poor people and the tribal and harvesting mechanism. Hence, the need Act. After implementation of the 7th Central bamboos within the State and also for outside people. If bamboo is grown in such a for promulgation of the Ordinance. Pay Commission, in India the ceiling of gratuity the State, which has been identified as major way that can be easily grown, then it Dwelling upon the benefits of the for Central Government employees had been impediment of the cultivation of bamboos by can be procured half its import price. amendment made in this Amending Bill, the enhanced from rupees ten lakhs to rupees twenty farmers on their land. The present amendment would serve as Minister inter alia stated that it would promote lakhs. In the past, the ceiling for the amount of It was, therefore, decided to amend clause a bonanza for the farmers. This would the cultivation of bamboo trees on forest land gratuity under the Act had followed the Central (7) of section 2 of the said Act so as to omit protect the environment too. If bamboo increasing the income of farmers; it would Pay Commission recommendations. Therefore, the word “bamboos” from the definition of tree, is made economically viable, the cottage accrue ecological benefits; lead to promotion of considering the inflation and wage increase even in order to exempt bamboos grown on non- industries can be developed in rural areas. bamboo based handicrafts; would save valuable in the case of employees engaged in private and forest areas from the requirement of a permit • Bamboo is the most important non-wood foreign exchange; and would ultimately reduce public sector, the entitlement of gratuity was also for felling or transit under the said Act, and forest product and bamboo in India, is a gap between bamboo rich and bamboo deficient required to be revised for employees who are this would encourage bamboo plantations by valuable raw material for the booming areas and make the transit easier. The Minister covered under the Act. It had also been proposed farmers resulting in the enhancement of their bamboo industry. also assuaged concerns over privatization of to empower the Central Government to notify the income from agricultural fields. • Bamboo has great potential for bamboo growing and that requisite advisories ceiling proposed, instead of amending the said Since, Parliament was not in session and economic and environmental had been issued to protect the interest of tribals, Act, so that the limit can be revised from time to immediate action was required to be taken, development and also for international marginalized sections and farmers. time keeping in view the increase in wage and the Indian Forest (Amendment) Ordinance, trade. The cultivation of bamboo on The Bill was passed by Lok Sabha on 20 inflation, and future Pay Commissions. 2017 was promulgated by the President on private land has to be encouraged. December 2017 and by Rajya Sabha on 27 The Government accordingly brought forward the 23 November 2017. • This step would go a long way in December 2017. The Bill as passed by both the Payment of Gratuity (Amendment) Bill, Accordingly, the Indian Forest (Amendment) enhancing the agricultural income of Houses of Parliament was assented to by the 2017 amending the legislation in section 2A of Bill, 2017 seeking to replace the Indian Forest farmers and tribals. President of India on 5 January 2018. the parent Act which empowered the Central (Amendment) Ordinance, 2017, was brought Some Members had reservations on the Government to notify the period of maternity leave forward by the Government. Amending Bill for following reasons:- The Payment of Gratuity (Amendment) in case of female employees as deemed to be The Amending legislation omitted the word • The ordinance need not have been Bill, 2017 in continuous service in place of existing twelve “bamboo” in section 2, clause (7) of the parent Act. promulgated in the first place. The Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972 (the Act) was weeks. Further, in section 4 of the parent Act the Debate: The Minister in-charge of the • It was felt that taking out of bamboo from enacted to provide for a scheme for the payment words “ten lakh rupees” had been substituted with Bill, while piloting the Amending legislation the purview of definition of tree, was not of gratuity to employees engaged in factories, the words “such amount as may be notified by the in Parliament inter alia stated that India’s in the interest of tribals. It was also felt mines, oilfields, plantations, ports, railway Central Government from time to time.” National Forest Policy was formulated in that it would tend to lead to privatization companies, shops or other establishments The Bill got unanimous support from all 1988. The bamboo, however, had been kept of the growing of bamboo trees. who had rendered a minimum five years of sections of the Members of both Houses of under the definition of tree in the Indian Forest • Further, concerns were expressed over continuous service with the establishment Parliament. Act, 1927, though according to science and the fact that the amendment provides employing ten or more persons. The calculation The Bill was passed by Lok Sabha on 15 taxonomy it is a grass. Under the definition that deregulation does not apply to of gratuity amount is based on a formula, March 2018 and by Rajya Sabha on 22 March of a tree, bamboo invited several stringent bamboo grown on forest land or non- which is fifteen days of wages for each year 2018. The Bill as passed by both Houses of laws for its cutting and its transit and it was forest land. Allowing differentiations can of completed service, subject to a ceiling. The Parliament was assented to by the President not feasible to carry out its commercial impact forest dwellers who eat bamboo present ceiling, as provided under section 4 of of India on 28 March 2018. business successfully. Through the Amending shoots as a regular dietary supplement. the Act is rupees ten lakhs which was fixed in legislation the Government intended to • A suggestion also came up that as the year 2010.

158 | The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two The Parliamentarian | 2018: Issue Two | 159 Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) (CPA)

CPA Patron, Officers, Executive Committee, Regional Representatives, Commonwealth CARIBBEAN, AMERICAS PACIFIC CPA Regional Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Steering Committee and CPA Regional Secretaries AND THE ATLANTIC CANADA Secretaries Mr Blair Armitage Patrons Hon. Anthony Michael Hon. Nafoitoa Talaimanu Parliament of Canada AFRICA Perkins, MP Keti, MP Mr Steven Kagaigai PATRON: VICE-PATRON: Speaker of the National Assembly, Deputy Speaker of the CARIBBEAN, AMERICAS & Parliament of Tanzania Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II Vacant Saint Kitts and Nevis Legislative Assembly, Samoa ATLANTIC Head of the Commonwealth (2015-2018) (2015-2018) Ms Heather Cooke ASIA Parliament of Jamaica Mr Syed Shamoon Hashmi Hon. Leroy C. Rogers, MLA Hon. Clayton Mitchell, MP Parliament of Pakistan Speaker of the House of New Zealand INDIA CPA Executive Committee Assembly, Anguilla (2016-2019) Shri Anoop Mishra AUSTRALIA (2016-2019) Parliament of India Executive Committee Members’ dates of membership are indictated below each name. Correct at time of printing. Mr Tom Duncan Australia Capital Territory Hon. Bridgid Annisette- Hon. Simon Pentanu, MP PACIFIC

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