Theparliamentarian

th 100 anniversary issue 1920-2020 TheParliamentarian

Journal of the Parliaments of the Commonwealth 2020 | Volume 101 | Issue One | Price £14

SPECIAL CENTENARY ISSUE: A century of publishing The Parliamentarian, the Journal of Commonwealth Parliaments, 1920-2020 PAGES 24-25

PLUS The Commonwealth Building Commonwealth Votes for 16 year Promoting global Secretary-General looks links in the Post-Brexit olds and institutional equality in the ahead to CHOGM 2020 World: A view from reforms at the Welsh Commonwealth in Rwanda Gibraltar Assembly PAGE 26 PAGE 30 PAGE 34 PAGE 40 CPA Masterclasses STATEMENT OF PURPOSE The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) exists to connect, develop, promote and support Parliamentarians and their staff to identify benchmarks of good governance, and Online video Masterclasses build an informed implement the enduring values of the Commonwealth. parliamentary community across the Commonwealth Calendar of Forthcoming Events and promote peer-to-peer learning 2020 Confirmed as of 24 February 2020 CPA Masterclasses are ‘bite sized’ video briefings and analyses of critical policy areas March and parliamentary procedural matters by renowned experts that can be accessed by Sunday 8 March 2020 International Women's Day the CPA’s membership of Members of Parliament and parliamentary staff across the Monday 9 March 2020 Commonwealth Day 17 to 19 March 2020 Commonwealth Association of Public Accounts Committees (CAPAC) Conference, London, UK Commonwealth ‘on demand’ to support their work. April

24 to 28 April 2020 Mid-Year meeting of the CPA Executive Committee, Assam, India May

27 to 30 May 2020 49th CPA British Islands and Mediterranean Regional Conference, Valletta, Malta June

22 to 27 June 2020 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), Kigali, Rwanda including: Commonwealth Youth Forum (21-23 June); Commonwealth Women’s Forum (22-23 June); Commonwealth People’s Forum (22-24 June); and Commonwealth Business Forum (23-25 June) July

10 to 18 July 2020 45th CPA Caribbean, Americas & Atlantic Regional Conference, Providenciales, Turks & Caicos 18 to 24 July 2020 58th CPA Canada Regional Conference, Toronto, Ontario, Canada 20 to 23 July 2020 CPA Pacific and Australia Region Presiding Officers and Clerks Conference (POCC), Fiji 20 to 26 July 2020 51st CPA Africa Regional Conference, Abuja, Nigeria 2021 12 to 18 January 2021 65th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

The CPA calendar fosters the exchange of events and activities between CPA Regions and Branches. For further information on any events, please contact the CPA Branch concerned or the CPA Headquarters Secretariat. CPA Branch Secretaries are asked to send notices of CPA events to [email protected] in advance of the publication deadline to ensure the calendar is accurate.

CPA Masterclass topics include: Disaster Risk Reduction | Gender and Parliament | Gender Budgeting | Women’s and Gender Caucusing | The role of male MPs as ‘agents of change’ CPA Small Branches Climate Change Toolkit for | Corporate Leadership for Parliamentarians | Parliamentarians and Local Government | Parliamentarians Separation of Powers in Relation to Parliament | Trade and the Role of Parliamentarians • Strengthening Parliamentarians as effective actors in the The CPA Masterclasses are available online via the CPA website. climate change agenda. www.cpahq.org/cpahq/cpamasterclasses • Accessible introduction to the key issues facing Legislatures at the frontline of climate change. • Practical guide for Parliamentarians to further progress at Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) the domestic and international level. Email: [email protected] | Tel: +44 (0)20 7799 1460 | www.cpahq.org Visit www.cpahq.org/cpahq/SBclimatechange to download a copy or email [email protected] Twitter @CPA_Secretariat | Facebook.com/CPAHQ Updated February 2020 CONTENTS: THE PARLIAMENTARIAN 100th anniversary issue CONTENTS 2020: ISSUE ONE The Parliamentarian 1920-2020

PAGE 20 PAGE 24 PAGE 18 PAGE 29

The Parliamentarian: Annual subscription Journal of the Parliaments VIEWS & NEWS & FEATURE PARLIAMENTARY (four issues) of the Commonwealth COMMENT PHOTOS ARTICLES REPORTS UK: £44 inc. postage. Volume 101 Worldwide: £46 surface post 2020: Issue One Editor’s Note View from the CPA CPA News The Parliamentarian Election Reforms: Votes Parliamentary Report £52 airmail The Parliamentarian Page 4 Small Branches News reports include: centenary for 16 year olds and Featuring parliamentary ISSN 0031-2282 Chairperson • 38th CPA Australia and A century of publishing institutional reforms at and legislative reports from Price per issue View from the CPA How can the smallest Pacific Regional Conference The Parliamentarian, the the Welsh Assembly Canada, Trinidad and Tobago, UK: £14 Issued and published by the Chairperson Parliaments deliver with their in South Australia Journal of Commonwealth A historic Act in the Welsh United Kingdom, Sri Lanka, Worldwide: £15 surface post International Secretariat of the £16 airmail Looking to the limited resources to deepen • CPA Small Branches Parliaments, 1920-2020 Assembly brings institutional New Zealand, Uganda, Commonwealth Parliamentary Commonwealth's future democratic governance? Workshop on Sustainable Page 24 changes Australia and India Association (CPA), CPA Disclaimer and the importance of youth Page 10 Economic Development in Page 34 Pages 48-75 Headquarters Secretariat, Opinions and comments engagement Malta Delivering a Common Richmond House, Houses of expressed in articles and Page 6 View from the Acting • Launch of the CPA Small Future: Connecting, How Parliamentarians Parliament, London CPA Secretary-General Branches Climate Change Innovating, can engage the public CPA DIRECTORY reviews published in The SW1A 0AA, United Kingdom. View from the Reflecting on 100 years of Toolkit for Parliamentarians Transforming through petition Parliamentarian are those of Commonwealth Women The Parliamentarian and the • 25th Conference of Speakers The Commonwealth system reforms CPA Organisational the individual contributors Tel: +44 (0) 20 7799 1460 CPA's role in parliamentary and Presiding Officers of the Secretary-General marks The modernisation of Structure and should not be attributed Parliamentarians (CWP) th Email: [email protected] Chairperson development Commonwealth in Canada the 100 anniversary of this parliamentary petition CPA Executive Committee to the Secretariat of the www.cpahq.org th Association. Creating a new vision for Page 12 • 10 Commonwealth Youth journal and looks ahead to systems in New South Wales Members, Commonwealth Twitter @CPA_Secretariat the Commonwealth Women Parliament in India the CHOGM 2020 in Rwanda Page 38 Women Parliamentarians Facebook.com/CPAHQ th Contributors Parliamentarians • 7 CPA India Regional Page 26 (CWP) Steering Committee Thank you to all contributors Page 8 Conference in Uttar Pradesh Promoting global Members and CPA Regional Mr Jarvis Matiya • 68th Westminster Seminar Building equality in the Secretaries for this issue. CPA Acting Secretary-General on Effective Parliaments in Commonwealth links Commonwealth Pages 76-77 London in the Post-Brexit A group of Parliamentarians Printed in: United Kingdom Mr Jeffrey Hyland • 28th Asia-Pacific World are seeking to promote CPA Branch Directory by Warners Midlands, PLC; Editor, The Parliamentarian Parliamentary Forum in The Deputy Chief Minister global equality for LGBT+ A full directory of all CPA New Delhi, India by Jainco [email protected] Australia. of Gibraltar looks at future citizens Branches Art India; and Singapore Pages 14-23 links being built in the Page 40 Pages 78-85 by Times Printers Private Main images: CPA Commonwealth Limited. Headquarters Secretariat Commonwealth Page 30 The need to eradicate and Shutterstock images. Women inequality in South Additional images: CPA Parliamentarians Africa Branches and Members. News and Events A view from the South African Front cover images: Jeffrey Reports from CWP activities Human Rights Commission Hyland/CPA Headquarters around the Commonwealth Page 42 Secretariat. Pages 44-47

MARKING 100 YEARS OF PUBLISHING THE PARLIAMENTARIAN, THE JOURNAL OF COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTS

The Editor’s Note

When this journal was first published in January 1920 as the ‘Journal These Commonwealth values have developed over many years of Parliaments of the Empire’, the world was a very different place and and are codified in the 2012 Commonwealth Charter and the CPA the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), which had been has continued to demonstrate its commitment to promote and founded in 1911, was a small group of nations and territories. The last ensure that these Commonwealth democratic principles and values 100 years have seen the CPA’s membership grow are “upheld, nurtured and implemented to the to 180 Branches in 54 Commonwealth countries highest standards.” Please turn to page 24 to read a feature article on 'A century of publishing The Parliamentarian, and includes more than 125 sub-national states, The Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Journal of Commonwealth Parliaments, 1920-2020'. provinces and territories, all with their own Parliaments Rt Hon. Patricia Scotland, QC writing in this or Legislatures. issue of The Parliamentarian recognises the Through this period, the journal has evolved role of the CPA and its journal in promoting the The recently elected Chairperson of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians; the 25th Conference of Speakers and Presiding from the ‘Journal of Parliaments of the Empire’ to the values of the Commonwealth: “With such depth Parliamentarians (CWP), Hon. Shandana Gulzar Khan, MNA Officers of the Commonwealth in Canada; 10th Commonwealth Youth ‘Journal of the Parliaments of the Commonwealth’ of connection comes fruitful cooperation: nations (Pakistan) in her first View article for The Parliamentarian writes about Parliament in India; 7th CPA India Regional Conference in Uttar Pradesh; to today’s title as ‘The Parliamentarian’, yet it growing together and encouraging one another creating a new vision for Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians. 68th Westminster Seminar on Effective Parliaments in London; the has continued to be the journal of record of the towards higher attainment, with firmer fulfilment The recently elected CPA Small Branches Chairperson, Hon. CPA Caribbean, Americas and Atlantic Regional Workshop of the activities of the CPA, reporting on its membership and closer adherence to the values and principles Niki Rattle, Speaker of the Parliament of the Cook Islands writes about Commonwealth Association of Public Accounts Committees (CAPAC) of Commonwealth Parliaments and Legislatures. Jeffrey Hyland, Editor of the Commonwealth Charter. This edition of The the work of the CPA Small Branches network and asks ‘how can the in Trinidad and Tobago; the inaugural Regional Parliamentary Human The Parliamentarian provides reporting on advances The Parliamentarian, Parliamentarian, marking the 100th anniversary of small Parliaments of the Commonwealth deliver with limited resources Resources Forum in New Zealand; CPA UK Modern Slavery Project in democratic governance and is a forum for the Commonwealth the first publication of the Journal of Commonwealth to deepen democratic governance in the 21st century?’ in her first View Workshop in Western Australia; Pacific Parliamentary Forum in New sharing of best practice amongst its membership, Parliamentary Association Parliaments, reminds us of the long record of article for this publication. Zealand; and the 28th Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum in Australia. with the continuing ethos of articles written by cooperation and sense of collegiality among the The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Rt Hon. Patricia This issue of The Parliamentarian features news and reports of Parliamentarians, parliamentary staff and experts Parliaments and Legislatures of our member Scotland, QC looks ahead to the Commonwealth Heads of Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) activities including from international organisations for the benefit of their peers and countries. Valuable bilateral exchanges and international meetings of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2020 in Rwanda later this year and cross-party support for legislation defining Female Genital Mutilation in the wider parliamentary community. At the same time, the CPA those elected or appointed to represent our citizens, and of officials its theme of ‘Delivering a Common Future: Connecting, Innovating, New Zealand; Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians from Pakistan would take on the professional development role, not just for new who serve Parliaments and Legislative Assemblies, are augmented by Transforming’. visiting the UK Parliament for a study visit exploring women and gender Parliamentarians in emerging Assemblies, but for all Parliamentarians journals, periodicals and other publications which help to disseminate The Deputy Chief Minister of Gibraltar, Hon. Dr Joseph Garcia, MP in legislation; CWP British Islands and Mediterranean Regional Steering throughout the Commonwealth. news of progress and innovation.” writes about future links being built in the Commonwealth in the post- Committee held in Scotland; 3rd CWP Australia Regional Conference in As outlined by the Acting CPA Secretary-General, Mr Jarvis The Parliamentarian is vital not only for sharing information amongst Brexit world. South Australia held on the theme of ‘125 years towards getting even’; Matiya in his View article in this issue: “Over the years the publication Parliamentarians and other stakeholders, but it is also instrumental The Llywydd (Presiding Officer) of the National Assembly for Wales, and the CWP Chairperson building partnership links for gender equality has continued to be a mouthpiece for the Commonwealth Parliamentary in enabling the CPA to fulfil its statement of purpose to “connect, Elin Jones, AM writes about the introduction of a historic Act in the with international organisations based in Paris. Association (CPA) and a forum for Parliamentarians to articulate and develop, promote and support Parliamentarians and their staff to Welsh Assembly that will bring institutional changes including votes for The Parliamentary Report and Third Reading section in this issue discuss developments on parliamentary procedures and practices, identify benchmarks of good governance and the implementation of 16 and 17 year olds. includes parliamentary and legislative news from Canada Federal, British democracy, good governance and human rights.” the enduring values of the Commonwealth.” Through the publication, Many Parliaments around the world are introducing reforms Columbia; Trinidad and Tobago, India, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Uganda, Members exchange views and deepen their understanding of designed to re-engage with their communities and one key reform is United Kingdom and Australia Federal. contemporary democratic and development issues, as well as their the modernisation of parliamentary petition systems. Chris Angus, We look forward to hearing your feedback and comments on this “Through this period, the journal has roles and responsibilities as peoples’ representatives. Research Officer at the New South Wales Parliamentary Research issue of The Parliamentarian, on the issues affecting Parliamentarians Today, The Parliamentarian continues to be published for the benefit Service, writes about the petition system reforms being introduced at the across the Commonwealth and to receiving your future contributions to evolved from the ‘Journal of Parliaments of the Association, reaching around 17,000 Parliamentarians and Parliament of New South Wales, Australia. this publication. parliamentary staff in the CPA’s 180 Parliaments and Legislatures Former Parliamentarian, Rt Hon. Nick Herbert is the Chair of the of the Empire’ to the ‘Journal of the in both print and digital format. Subscribers also include academia Global Equality Caucus and writes about its work in promoting global Jeffrey Hyland Parliaments of the Commonwealth’ to interested in political science, research libraries and global equality for LGBT+ citizens. Editor, The Parliamentarian organisations. Researchers Siphelo Mbeki and Shanelle van der Berg [email protected] today’s title as ‘The Parliamentarian’, yet In this issue of The Parliamentarian, the Chairperson of the from the South African Human Rights Commission write about the it has continued to be the journal of record Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Executive need to eradicate inequality in South Africa and look at the role that Committee, Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, MP (Cameroon) in her Parliamentarians can play in meeting social, pollical and economic targets. This special centenary issue of The Parliamentarian features a of the activities of the CPA, reporting View article writes about looking to the Commonwealth’s future and CPA news reports in this issue include: 38th CPA Australia and full CPA Branch Directory - please turn to the back pages of this the importance of youth engagement following her visit to the 10th Pacific Regional Conference in South Australia; CPA Small Branches publication for further information. Online listing can also be on its membership of Commonwealth Commonwealth Youth Parliament at the Delhi Legislative Assembly Workshop on Sustainable Economic Development in Malta; the found in the CPA Directory at: www.cpahq.org/cpahq/directory. Parliaments and Legislatures.” in India. launch of the CPA Small Branches Climate Change Toolkit for

lasting CPA youth programme and serves to LOOKING TO THE COMMONWEALTH’S FUTURE build the capacity and skills of young people throughout the Commonwealth. As CPA Chairperson, I am extremely proud that over the AND THE IMPORTANCE OF YOUTH ENGAGEMENT last ten Commonwealth Youth Parliaments, we have helped to shape the future leaders of the Commonwealth. With the fact that elections have been View from the CPA Chairperson recently held in my country, I have also been thinking carefully on what it means to be a Parliamentarian. What are the traits you should have as a Parliamentarian? What Prior to the formation of the Commonwealth, there As we mark the 100th anniversary of the first virtues, principles and skills are characteristics have always been shared values, some of which publication of The Parliamentarian, the Journal of you should emulate and pass onto the next stem from the fabric of our societies and cultures Commonwealth Parliaments, we are reminded generation? and others which were learned from our various of the role of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Firstly, communication is key. We are part and continuous interactions across cultures. Association in furthering democratic governance, of a Commonwealth that reflects over 2,000 Today, those values include fairness, prosperity, accountability and parliamentary democracy cultures and yet we are all linked by a common unity, democracy, freedom of speech, the rule of through common values, the sharing of best language and shared traditions and practices. law and good governance amongst others – all of practice and continued professional development. If anything, this can teach us the importance which are embodied by the Commonwealth and Our future leaders are one of the key strands of speech and communication. Coming remain the driving force behind the goals of the of work that the Commonwealth Parliamentary from Cameroon where today’s language so The CPA Chairperson, Hon. Emilia Lifaka, MP (Cameroon) joins the chief guest, Shri Om Commonwealth Parliamentary Association in its Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, Association continues to emphasise. Of the potently shapes a nations politics, what you Birla, Speaker of the Lok Sabha, Parliament of India at the opening of the 10th Commonwealth aim to strengthen our Parliaments and Legislatures. MP, Chairperson of the CPA Commonwealth’s combined population of more say and how you say it can win followers and Youth Parliament in India. Please turn to page 20 for full report. As we evolve as an organisation, so do the Executive Committee and than 2.4 billion, more than 60% are under 30 years advocates. During parliamentary debates, all different challenges we face. While we celebrate Deputy Speaker of the National of age. The Commonwealth sees young people Parliamentarians must give considerable thought to the manner in Compromise and working together is also essential. our achievements, we should also recognise the Assembly of Cameroon as assets to a country’s development who should which they communicate, especially given the cultural and political Parliamentarians will undoubtably need to work together, build challenges that we face today as an Association. be empowered to realise their potential. For the sensitivities present in many jurisdictions. Maintaining an environment alliances and share goals. The Commonwealth provides us with a platform to Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, as an of respect and decency is so very important. Embrace change. As a Parliamentarian, it is essential to be unite in order to efficiently and effectively tackle these global issues. Association primarily for Parliamentarians, we recognise that young flexible and embrace new advances. As I learnt recently following the Our diversity is our strength and our shared values will ensure that we people have a proven capability to lead change and are a vital and CPA’s annual conference, the 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary are able to secure our long-term future. valuable investment for now and the future. Conference in Uganda, adaption and evolution for Parliamentarians, Academic Stephen Covey said: "Strength lies in differences, On behalf of the CPA, I had the great pleasure to attend the recent Parliaments and the wider-Commonwealth is so very important. not similarities." As an organisation, we are 54 nations, 2.4 billion 10th Commonwealth Youth Parliament, hosted by the Legislative The technological revolutions, which are growing in frequency and inhabitants and over 2,000 cultures strong. That to me is what Assembly of Delhi and CPA Delhi Branch. advancement, offer us all the ability to reshape the world in whichever continues to make the Commonwealth relevant. It is why we strive Being in India for the landmark 10th Commonwealth Youth way we choose. Today a single Tweet, YouTube video or Facebook to find common solutions to global issues like climate change, Parliament was particularly poignant, especially as India is the largest post has the potential to reach millions. And such messages can at international trade negotiations and peace and security. In an ever democracy in the world. At the 2019 election in India, a breath-taking the press of a button, challenge assumptions, fight complacency or changing, growing and challenging world, it is imperative not to forget 600 million people voted. Furthermore, as we celebrated the 70th praise the worthy. the relevance of the Commonwealth and the role of each and every anniversary of the London Declaration and the foundation of the As we turn to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meetings nation in building and shaping a better world. ‘modern’ Commonwealth last year, it was important to consider the (CHOGM) in Kigali, Rwanda later this year and reflect on the 2020 significant role that the newly founded state of India played in 1949. Commonwealth theme: ‘Delivering a Common Future: Connecting, “As we evolve as an organisation, so do It was therefore appropriate that the 10th Commonwealth Youth Innovating, Transforming’, it is important that Heads of Government Parliament was held in India. involve Parliamentarians in the discussion of key issues and ensure the different challenges we face. While we India, which has one of the fastest growing economies in the world that the Legislatures and Parliaments of the Commonwealth are celebrate our achievements, we should also today, is home to a fifth of the world's youth. Half of its population engaged so as to enforce pro-active rather than re-active laws. is under the age of 25, and a quarter is below the age of 14. India’s We are all fingers of the same hand within the Commonwealth. I recognise the challenges that we face today young population is its most valuable asset. As such India has long urge each and every one of us to work to strengthen our collective recognised the importance of young people to the future of society. vision and never cease in our relentless efforts to keep growing and as an Association. The Commonwealth The decision to host the 10th Commonwealth Youth Parliament impacting positive change. The road might be rough and the journey provides us with a platform to unite in order showed not only a commitment to empower its own young people, long. But I can guarantee you, as long as we walk that road together, but also a wider commitment to the development of Commonwealth we will push and even surpass our limits. to efficiently and effectively tackle these youth beyond its own shores. To quote the words of India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, India is a country that believes "[Youth] This View article is based on a speech given by the CPA Chairperson at the opening of global issues. Our diversity is our strength the 10th Commonwealth Youth Parliament at the Delhi Legislative Assembly, India on 25 are like buds in a garden and should be carefully and lovingly nurtured, November 2019. and our shared values will ensure that we as they are the future of the nation and the citizens of tomorrow." Last year’s Commonwealth Youth Parliament was particularly Left: Young participants from across the Commonwealth engage in are able to secure our long-term future.” important in that it was the milestone tenth event; it is the longest the debate at the 10th Commonwealth Youth Parliament in India.

follow. It should not be a surprise that all developing countries wish self-employment, with the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and CREATING A NEW VISION FOR COMMONWEALTH to become developed countries, the main element that separates with the Fourth Industrial Revolution and we must be prepared. developing countries from developed countries are indicators (i.e. CWP has a responsibility to get together and by the end of the GDP per capita). GDP per capita dictates how much capital the year agree on producing three target policies; promoting and WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS outlay our Governments will have to better provide for hospitals and improving women's contributions to achieving SDG 5; creating a new healthcare, quality education and skills, the ability to vote without fear digital policy for women Parliamentarians; and developing financially of violence, and the opportunity to provide for families. inclusive policy-making for women (with its own benchmarks and a View from the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Chairperson The CWP has a rich history; facing uniquely challenging tool-kit for Parliaments). circumstances, we have done things within the Commonwealth, that The world loses sixteen trillion dollars annually due to inequality many countries have not been able to, and now is the time to make a in the workplace between women and men. If nobody can see the 1992 was supposedly the year of the woman as a Parliamentarians? One look at our anthem, and it few further strides that we did not have the opportunity to do earlier. impact of this, we can and will, strive towards filling this colossal gap large number of women became Senators in the US becomes fairly clear that it has always been about Times are changing rapidly, with both the shape of employment and as our first set of this goals by the end of 2020. Congress; another such year of women was 2018 ‘equality, development and peace’. when a different kind of woman Parliamentarian Equality that goes beyond a rubber-stamp was visible on the global scene, unapologetic about legitimacy; having even 50% female legislators New Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians Chairperson promotes gender her race, religion or political views; 2020 in the means nothing when those very women legislators equality on visits to South Africa, Iceland and the UK United Kingdom seems to be the year of the woman just fill the aisles and have no say in policy-making; where for the first time in British history, an all-time development is empty when national and sub-national The newly elected CWP Chairperson, Hon. Shandana high of 220 women Members were elected to the budgets are empty of any gender-sensitive analysis Gulzar Khan, MNA has been promoting gender UK House of Commons, a record 34% of all the and impact; peace is hollow and fragile when the equality and the CWP’s activities and initiatives on seats in the chamber. most-impacted women are nowhere to be found on a series of visits that has taken her to three different However, for me, 2020 is the year of Hon. Shandana Gulzar Khan, the very negotiating tables that idealistically seek to countries in the first quarter of her new term. the woman for Parliaments across the MNA, Chairperson of the negotiate peace. The CWP Chairperson first visited Western Cape Commonwealth and the global community; Commonwealth Women The world is finally beginning to wake up to its in South Africa in November 2019 to participate in 2020 marks the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Parliamentarians (CWP) own mistakes, the certainty of the knowledge that a programme of events convened to re-establish ’Fourth World Conference on Women’ and the and Member of the National we haven’t done justice by ourselves. The dawn of their Parliament’s commitment to the values of the ’adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform Assembly of Pakistan the comprehension that women’s issues are not CWP. The CWP Chairperson met with the Speaker for Action (1995)’. A five-year milestone will be human rights issues but issues concerning 50% of the Western Cape Provincial Parliament, Hon. reached towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals of the population. Last year in Kampala, Uganda when I introduced Masizole Mnqasela, MPP and the Deputy Speaker, (SDGs) and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. 2020 my credentials to the membership of the Commonwealth Women Hon. Beverley Ann Schäfer, MPP to discuss their is therefore a pivotal year for the accelerated realisation of gender Parliamentarians following my election, I talked about winning for commitment to increase gender equality. In Cape equality and the empowerment of all women and girls, everywhere. women, for every Parliamentarian in the Commonwealth. What Town, the CWP Chairperson also visited a women’s The 64th session of the Commission on the Status of Women is the one thing we need to focus on in 2020? What are the four community project in the constituency of the Deputy is planned to take place at the United Nations Headquarters in main points which have the power to tip the scales exponentially for Speaker where she said: “I am delighted to have New York from 9 to 20 March 2020. Representatives of Member women Parliamentarians and their constituents? been invited to attend the re-establishment of the CWP Chapter in CWP Branches across the Commonwealth may be inspired by States, UN entities, and ECOSOC-accredited non-governmental While the world and indeed the Commonwealth have made great Western Cape. To take the decision to re-energise CWP activities this. No doubt, I will leave feeling very optimistic about the future of organisations (NGOs) from all regions of the world are invited to strides in development on some key issues, we, Parliamentarians, will is one that I find admirable and very crucial, and I hope that fellow CWP in Western Cape and this part of Southern Africa.” attend the session. This year is the first time that the Commonwealth need to utilise the power of sisterhood and of partnerships. Unity and The CWP Chairperson then travelled to attend the Global Forum Women Parliamentarians (CWP) will also speak at the Commission cohesion both within the Commonwealth, the wider Commonwealth for Women Leaders in Reykjavik, Iceland where she spoke in the on the Status of Women in New York on harassment of women; for Parliamentary Association (CPA), within the CWP network and with session titled ‘How can “#girlsgetequal”: Gender Transformative me this is also the year where International Women’s Day will be partner organisations that work tirelessly to promote us and ensure that Power and Representation’. This international forum brings together celebrated every day after it is celebrated on 8th March. ‘no one is left behind’ on the SDGs such as UN-Women and UNDP. the world’s most inspiring and committed leaders to share ideas and However, what is it about the Beijing declaration that resonates What should be our immediate focus for the CWP? Unequivocally, solutions on how to promote the number of women in leadership closely with the intellectual heritage of the Commonwealth Women women’s economic empowerment and growth - everything else will positions, how to further advance society and how to make the most of the possibilities that these opportunities offer. Following the forum in Iceland, the CWP Chairperson visited the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians' Anthem Commonwealth Secretariat ahead of the International Day for the 1. All across the nations (Chorus/Refrain x 2) 2. Women can't be silent 3. Women now are working Elimination of Violence against Women (Monday 25 November), All around the world So sing a song... When all around the world To build a better world where she met with the Head of the Gender Unit, Amelia Kinahoi Women are longing to be For women everywhere People hurt and hungry Where the love of peace Siamomua to discuss issues of mutual cooperation and promoting free Let it ring around the world children cry Can rest on every shore gender equality in the Commonwealth. The CWP Chairperson No longer in the shadows And never cease We will sing out now for Where men lay down their conveyed a message for the launch of ‘Commonwealth Says No Forced to stay behind So sing a song for women Justice and Development weapons More’ anti-violence campaign in which she stated that “I’m proud to But side by side everywhere And hold the rights And learn to love and share state that the CWP has played an active role in raising international In true equality Equality, development and Of all the people high And people work awareness on gender-based violence, in particular in the political peace So sing a song..... To bring an end to war process. The CWP continues to highlight this critical issue that So sing a song...... impacts the lives and well-being of half of the world’s population.”

CHOGM. Despite its tragic HOW CAN THE SMALLEST PARLIAMENTS DELIVER past and genocide, with a strong leadership, Rwanda has emerged as one of the WITH THEIR LIMITED RESOURCES TO DEEPEN most stable and economically prosperous countries in Africa. DEMOCRATIC GOVERNANCE? Rwanda has a lot to be proud of and it is a fitting place to host CHOGM. The Commonwealth has a long and respected history of supporting small states View from the CPA with thirty-two of the fifty- Small Branches Chairperson four member countries of the Commonwealth being small states. Therefore, the CHOGM It was a humbling experience to be elected by the Branches, to share knowledge, best practice and 2020 offers a huge opportunity CPA’s Small Branches Members at the 37th CPA strengthen capacity. for the CPA Small Branches Small Branches Conference in the margins of the As the incoming CPA Small Branches network to have a voice on 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Chairperson, my aspirations are to work closely with the global stage. Small states Kampala, Uganda, in September 2019. I am the the newly created CPA Small Branches Steering remain particularly vulnerable second person to hold this post as the CPA Small Committee Members to include all of the CPA to external shocks as a result Branches Chairperson, a position first created Regions and their CPA Branches in the planning of their geographic positioning, in 2016. This shows how the Commonwealth stages for the next CPA Small Branches Strategic inherent structural challenges, Parliamentary Association (CPA) has evolved as Plan. The ambition is to continue what has worked and deep integration into the a global network to recognise that, while being well, to add new initiatives, and to strengthen global economy and so the build peace and harmony through social and democratic development. a community of Commonwealth Parliaments, collaboration amongst the Small Branches network, Commonwealth puts a special lens on small states and aims to build Together we can also spur inclusive economic empowerment, so its smallest Parliaments have a specific set of Hon. Niki Rattle, recognising our diversity as a strength and in resilience and promote inclusive development in some of the world’s that all people, particularly women, youth and marginalised groups circumstances and challenges that need to be Chairperson of the CPA sharing best practices. Of course, there is also great most vulnerable economies. can share the fruits of progress and prosperity through deep rooted addressed. Small Branches and value in working very closely with the staff at the In recent weeks, The Maldives has re-joined the Commonwealth. networks of friendship and goodwill. I acknowledge with great pleasure the excellent Speaker of the Parliament CPA Headquarters Secretariat. The launching of Their return is significant as this not only broadens the Commonwealth The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association is the parliamentary work that was led and achieved by the first of the Cook Islands the CPA Small Branches Climate Change Toolkit family of nations, but being a small jurisdiction, The Maldives will also wing of the Commonwealth. Parliamentarians sit at the centre of Chairperson of the CPA Small Branches network, for Parliamentarians at the CPA Small Branches grow and strengthen the CPA Small Branches network, in addition to society and are therefore essential agents to bring change. The Hon. Angelo Farrugia, Speaker of the Parliament Workshop in Malta (led by CPA Programmes becoming the only CPA Small Branch from the CPA Asia Region. Commonwealth is a force for good and a platform for discussion and of Malta, who paved the way with the CPA Small Branches Strategic Assistant, Jack Hardcastle) is an excellent initiative that draws on Together the Parliaments and people of the Commonwealth can progress. There are many global issues affecting citizens today both Plan 2017-2020. Under his leadership, the CPA Small Branches the expertise within the CPA Small Branches network and utilises tackle such far-reaching issues as climate change. Together we can within and outside the Commonwealth and such bodies can be a network has grown from strength to strength and the challenge the CPA’s global partnerships with international organisations like work to find sustainable ways of using the natural resources of our positive force for good. Given the Commonwealth’s global influence, it remains to keep up the momentum and carry the legacy with UNEP and the Commonwealth Small States Centre of Excellence. planet, its land and the ocean, so that our environment is protected to can help the world to be a better place. solidarity into the future. The recent CPA Small Branches Workshop This CPA toolkit is focused on the CPA’s Small Branches due to their on Sustainable Economic Development hosted by the Parliament vulnerability to the effects of climate change and gives advice and of Malta was a significant example of the bringing together of guidance to Parliamentarians with examples of focused means of CPA Small Branches Chairperson chairs first meeting with Parliamentarians from the Commonwealth Parliamentarians from the CPA Small Branches assistance. network, from six of the seven CPA Regions which have Small Undoubtedly, the citizens in small jurisdictions expect the same CPA's Small Branches in margins of CPA Australia and Pacific Regional Conference level of services as those in larger and better resourced ones, and so the real challenge is how the small Parliaments of the Commonwealth “Undoubtedly, the citizens in small can deliver with limited resources to deepen democratic governance in the 21st century. This is a key focus for the CPA Small Branches jurisdictions expect the same level Chairperson moving forward. The centenary of The Parliamentarian, the CPA’s Journal of of services as those in larger and Commonwealth Parliaments, is a celebration to be embraced by better resourced ones, and so the real the CPA’s Small Branches. The Journal is a resource that many Parliamentarians have sought out for the rich and diverse information challenge is how the small Parliaments that can be drawn from its pages, to assist in many situations, especially for the CPA’s Small Branches. of the Commonwealth can deliver with The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) In the margins of the 38th CPA Australia and Pacific Regional Conference in Adelaide, South Australia, the CPA Small Branches Chairperson, Hon. Niki later this year is to be welcomed. The host for CHOGM 2020, Rwanda, limited resources to deepen democratic Rattle chaired a meeting of CPA Small Branches from the CPA Pacific, Australia, Caribbean and British Islands & Mediterranean Regions to update is a relatively new member of the Commonwealth that joined in 2009 st Members on the network and to discuss forthcoming activities. Please turn to page 14 for a full report of the Regional Conference. governance in the 21 century.” and it is the first Francophonie Commonwealth nation to host the

among these are the process of recruiting the new CPA Secretary- Branches Chairperson, Hon. Niki Rattle, Speaker of the Parliament of REFLECTING ON 100 YEARS OF THE PARLIAMENTARIAN General, progressing the issue of the Status of the CPA, finalising the Cook Islands, presided over the launch which was also attended proposed Standing Orders for the conduct of General Assembly by the Speaker of the Parliament of Malta and former CPA Small meetings, reviewing proposed constitutional amendments and Branches Chairperson, Hon. Dr Angelo Farrugia. It is encouraging AND THE CPA’S ROLE IN PARLIAMENTARY DEVELOPMENT exploring ways of diversifying CPA’s income. to see other stakeholders already referring to the Climate Change Highlights of the CPA’s recent programmatic activities include Toolkit and we encourage all CPA Small Branches to make use of the assisting CPA Branches to conduct self-assessments using the toolkit for their Members. The Toolkit has also been shared with all CPA’s Recommended Benchmarks for Democratic Legislatures under CPA Small Branches via CPA Branch Secretaries and is available on View from the Acting CPA Secretary-General the Commonwealth Partnership for Democracy (#CP4D) project the CPA website at www.cpahq.org/cpahq/SBclimatechange. which is funded by the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office as The CPA Workshop was organised in collaboration with the a legacy of the last CHOGM in 2018. Over the last 18 months, the Commonwealth Small States Centre of Excellence and sought to impart This year marks a century since The Parliamentarian where Members learn and share from each other. project has been gaining momentum and has been very well received to Parliamentarians representing 13 of the CPA’s Small Branches factual was first published and I am delighted to present The Parliamentarian is vital not only for sharing by Parliaments within our Commonwealth community. and relevant knowledge needed in their roles of enacting and supporting to you the first Issue of the Journal right at the information amongst Parliamentarians and other At the 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference, delegates policies administered by their respective Parliaments. The uniqueness of the start of the new decade. Over the years the stakeholders, but it is also instrumental in enabling acknowledged the importance of the CPA Benchmarks and the benefits CPA Workshop was that it was delivered in the form of a Select Committee publication has continued to be a mouthpiece for the the CPA to fulfil its statement of purpose to “connect, of undertaking self-assessments using these recommended markers. inquiry, and provided Parliamentarians with the tools and practical experience Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) develop, promote and support Parliamentarians and They noted that the exercise not only promotes good governance and needed to scrutinise commitments and goals made by their respective and a forum for Parliamentarians to articulate and their staff to identify benchmarks of good governance management of Parliaments but also increases Legislatures’ self- governments in promoting good governance, a fundamental value of the discuss developments on parliamentary procedures and the implementation of the enduring values of the awareness of institutional gaps and challenges that need attention. It was Commonwealth of which the CPA upholds. Given the importance that and practices, democracy, good governance and Commonwealth.” Through the publication, Members not therefore surprising to see a number of CPA Branches expressing the CPA places on Small Branches, the CPA Workshop focussed on the human rights. These are part of the Commonwealth’s exchange views and deepen their understanding of interest to participate in the project before it concludes in April 2020. role of Parliaments, especially through the Select Committee process, in fundamental values as agreed by Commonwealth contemporary democratic and development issues, So far over 12 Branches have undertaken the Benchmarking questioning and analysing policies on key issues for small jurisdictions such Heads of Government and codified in the 2012 Mr Jarvis Matiya as well as their roles and responsibilities as peoples’ exercise with the support of the CPA Headquarters Secretariat. as trade opportunities, tourism, inclusion and equality, renewable energy, Commonwealth Charter and other Commonwealth Acting Secretary-General representatives. These include South Africa, St Lucia, Malaysia, Kenya, Belize, ocean management, climate change and food security. Declarations such as the Harare Declaration of of the Commonwealth The commemoration of the centenary of this Tanzania, Grenada, Ghana, The Gambia, Anguilla, Uganda and Sierra The CPA Headquarters Secretariat will prepare a committee 1991 and the Singapore Declaration of 1971. The Parliamentary Association publication comes in the aftermath of a successful Leone. As this publication goes to press the self-assessment of the report, based on the evidence gathered during the CPA Small Commonwealth Charter demonstrates resolve and 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference, National Assembly of Pakistan is underway. The CPA Recommended Branches Workshop, with recommendations and action plans to collective commitment by the Commonwealth to promote and ensure which was held in Kampala, Uganda from 22 to 29 September 2019. Benchmarks for Democratic Legislatures reinforce the belief that improve government policies, strategies and implementation within that these Commonwealth democratic principles and values are The Conference, whose theme was ‘Adaption, Engagement, Evolution effective Parliaments are one of the principal institutions of any CPA Small Branches to ensure sustainable economic development. upheld, nurtured and implemented to the highest standards. The CPA of Parliament in a Rapidly Changing Commonwealth’, brought together functioning democracy, and provide a minimum standard and a guide Looking ahead, there is a lot of work to be done in response to the continues to play an important role in this regard. over 500 Parliamentarians, parliamentary staff and other relevant on how a Parliament should be constituted and how it should function areas requiring support and assistance to the CPA membership, but one In 1920, the Journal of Empire Parliaments, as it was then known, stakeholders to review critical issues affecting Parliaments in the in line with the values and principles of the Commonwealth Charter can be certain of the commitment, dedication and hard work of the CPA began and it has continued to be a medium for sharing best practices Commonwealth. With the participation of other international partners, on the development of free and democratic societies. Headquarters Secretariat staff for our Members and CPA Branches. and principles on these fundamental values, which are important for Members participated in the learning and development sessions and Whilst funding for the project from the UK Government will the promotion of democracy and development for the benefit of all deliberated on possible solutions from a holistic perspective, and the conclude in April this year, the CPA Headquarters Secretariat plans to Commonwealth citizens. Over the years, the CPA has transformed role of Parliamentarians in particular. It was also pleasing to welcome continue with this critical work, reaching out to more CPA Branches and grown into a 180-Branch association, big and small, across all back The Gambia to the CPA family following the approval, by the to assist them in this assessment of self-reflection. nine Regions of the CPA. The membership includes 14 Overseas 64th General Assembly in Kampala, of the application by the Gambia Other key programmes that the CPA continues to deliver include Territories, three Crown Dependencies and more than 125 sub- Parliament to rejoin the CPA. Post-Election Seminars, Technical Assistance Programmes (TAPs) national states, provinces and territories in federal style countries This centenary anniversary also coincides with the preparations and the innovative Fundamentals courses with Witwatersrand across the 54 member states of the Commonwealth. for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) University, South Africa and with McGill University, Canada. The CPA acknowledges that democracy is a continuously due to take place in Kigali, Rwanda in June 2020, under the The professional development of Parliamentarians and developing concept that needs to be nurtured, and that no single theme of: ‘Delivering a Common Future: Connecting, Innovating, parliamentary staff remains a key priority of the CPA. We therefore Parliament can do it all in terms of providing a source of best practice. Transforming’. This theme was chosen because the governments continue to develop innovative and relevant programmes for our All Parliaments, regardless of how big or small, young or old, are good and people of the diverse family of 54 Commonwealth countries Members and parliamentary staff. The launch at the 64th CPC of two sources of vital transformation and influence. The CPA is therefore connect at many different levels through extensive and deep-rooted new highly accessible and innovative online upskilling programmes a forum for promoting parliamentary development and experience networks of friendship and goodwill. Within the CPA family, The on a pilot basis for parliamentary staff accredited by the International Parliamentarian presents an opportunity for Members, Branches and School for Government at King’s College, London University and “The CPA acknowledges that democracy is a other stakeholders to connect, share and transform. also with McGill University, Canada is testament to our commitment Following the conclusion of the 64th Commonwealth to strengthening the knowledge and capacity of Commonwealth continuously developing concept that needs to Parliamentary Conference, and as we look forward to the forthcoming Parliaments. This is a unique development as no other parliamentary The Acting CPA Secretary-General, Mr Jarvis Matiya attended the CPA be nurtured, and that no single Parliament can Mid-Year CPA Executive Committee Meeting to be held in Assam, organisation to my knowledge has this type of offering for its Small Branches Workshop on Sustainable Economic Development in India from 24 to 28 April 2020 as well as the 65th Commonwealth membership. Malta and met with the Speaker of the Parliament of Malta, Hon. Angelo do it all in terms of providing a source of best Parliamentary Conference to be held in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada The CPA has also continued to focus on the CPA’s Small Farrugia in the margins of the programme to discuss cooperation practice. All Parliaments, regardless of how big in January 2021, the CPA Headquarters Secretariat has been Branches. On 29 January 2020, a CPA Climate Change Toolkit between the CPA Headquarters and the CPA Malta Branch and implementing decisions and mandates given at the 64th CPA General for Small Branch Parliamentarians was launched at the CPA the work of the CPA Small Branches network in empowering small or small, young or old, are good sources of vital Assembly, as well as ongoing programmatic activities as stipulated Sustainable Development Workshop for Small Branches which took Legislatures. transformation and influence.” in the CPA Strategic Plan and Business Plan 2018-2021. Notable place in Valletta, Malta from 29 to 31 January 2020. The CPA Small

12 | The Parliamentarian | 2020: Issue One | 100th anniversary issue 1920-2020 The Parliamentarian | 2020: Issue One | 100th anniverary issue 1920-2020 | 13 14 |TheParliamentarian | 2020: IssueOne|100 Regional ConferenceinSouthAustralia attending the 38 Commonwealth Parliamentarians of urbanisationwasthefocusfor Parliaments intacklingthechallenges The roleofCommonwealth the focusforCommonwealthParliamentariansat38 Role ofCommonwealthParliamentsintacklingthechallengesurbanisationis parliamentary democracy–includingthe125 nature ofSouth Australia inleading the way in promoting communities. TheGovernoralsorecognisedtheprogressive the CPA,androleofParliamentariansinrepresentingtheir Commonwealth, championedby of parliamentarydemocracyinthe Van Lewhospokeoftheimportance South Australia,HisExcellencyHieu was openedbytheGovernorof Conference. Parliamentarians duringtheRegional all examined by Commonwealth communities andruraldeclinewere infrastructure, engagingindigenous of urbanisation, transportation, Australia. Themanychallenges Conference inAdelaide,South Australia andPacificRegional Parliamentary Association(CPA) Conference with the President of the Legislative Council of South Conference withthePresidentof theLegislativeCouncilofSouth The Speakerwasnominated as ChairpersonoftheRegional state of South Australia live and work in the city of Adelaide. jurisdictions –asapproximately 75%ofthepopulation the challenges of urbanisation facing so many Commonwealth who said that Adelaide provided one of the best examples of of theHouseAssemblyatParliamentSouthAustralia please visitwww.cpahq.org/cpahq/chairspeeches. read the CPA Chairperson’s address to the Regional Conference to the Regional Conference wasalso distributedto delegates. Regions whichgreatlybenefitsourregions.” between theParliamentsofCPAAustraliaandPacific Conference emphasisestheexcellenttwinningprogramme include parliamentarydemocracy.Inaddition,theCPARegional Members acommitmenttotheCommonwealthvalueswhich now inits108 to theRegionalConference.Hon.JohnAjakasaid: of theCPAChairperson,Hon.EmiliaLifaka,MP(Cameroon) address totheRegionalConferenceandconveyedgreetings of theLegislativeCouncilNewSouthWalesgavekeynote women’s suffrageinSouthAustralia2019. The CPARegionalConference Delegates were welcomed by Hon. Vincent Tarzia, MP, Speaker Delegates werewelcomedbyHon.VincentTarzia,MP,Speaker An addressthattheCPAChairpersonhadbeenduetodeliver The CPA Vice-Chairperson, Hon. John Ajaka, MLC, President CPA NEWS th yearcontinuestodemonstratethroughits th Commonwealth th anniversary issue1920-2020 th anniversaryof “The CPA To To 2019. Parliament ofSouthAustraliain Adelaide from18to21November Conference washostedbythe CPA SouthAustraliaBranchand Gibraltar. Observers from the British Virgin Islands, Jersey, Pakistan and and Tuvalu. Members also attended the Regional Conference as Northern Territory;Queensland;Samoa;SouthAustralia;Tonga; Islands; Kiribati; Nauru; New Zealand; New South Wales; Niue; Australia Federal;AustralianCapitalTerritory;Bougainville;Cook 38th CPAAustraliaandPacificRegionalConferenceincluded: across theCPAmembership.TheBranchesattending attended theRegionalConferencefrom20CPABranches the challengesofurbanisation. the government’s and local enterprises’ activities in addressing Delegates alsovisiteddevelopmentprojectsinAdelaidetosee cultural identitiesandindigenouscommunitiesinurbanareas. Nelson, MP(NorthernTerritory)onthechallengesofprotecting transport andinfrastructureforurbanareas;MsSandra Hon. Stephan Knoll, MP on the challenges of maintaining the SustainableDevelopmentGoals;SouthAustralianMinister, particular reference to thesmallest jurisdictions ofthe CPA and Cook Islandsonservicedeliveryforurbanandruralareaswith Chairperson, Hon. Niki Rattle, Speaker of the Parliament of the Conference Chairperson. Australia, Hon.AndrewMcLachlan,MLCasDeputyRegional The three-day38 Around 40 Members of Parliament and parliamentary staff Conference presentationsincludedtheCPASmallBranches th CPA Australia and Pacific CPAAustraliaandPacific th CPAAustraliaandPacific Regional experts inacademia andcivilsociety. held ajointcommitteeinquiryinto thetopic,takingevidencefrom this false orphanage system. As part of the workshop, delegates taken andputintoorphanages in orderthattraffickersprofitfrom trafficking’, wherechildrenwho haveparentsorguardiansare international level. and raisingawarenessoftheseissuesatlocal,national laws. Participantsareattheforefrontofstrengtheninglegislation legislation; andoversightoftheimplementationanti-trafficking evidence andresearch;scrutinisinganti-traffickingpolicy and Parliamentarians toexchangeideasaroundtheirroleingathering Pacific region.TheCPAUKWorkshopwasanopportunity for worldwide, with over half that number existing within the Asia- victims ofmodernslavery,forcedlabourandhumantrafficking Foundation, estimatesthattherearearound40.3million fight againsthumantraffickingandforcedlabour. Islands, SriLankaandtheUKexploredtheirroleinleading Delegates fromAustralia,Bangladesh,Pakistan,Solomon 2019 aspartoftheCPAUKModernSlaveryProject. Parliament ofWesternAustralia,from16to18December organised by the CPAUKBranch, inpartnership withthe Pacific were in Perth, Australia to participate in a workshop Commonwealth ParliamentariansfromacrosstheAsia- delegates engagedwithPacificcommunitiesandbusinessesin democracy intheregion. term relationships among Pacific MPs and enhance parliamentary parliamentary practices. It also aims to build meaningful, long three yearsandenablesknowledgesharingonkeyissues in thePacific.ThePacificParliamentaryForumtakesplaceevery to exchange ideas and the major challenges and opportunities the CPAPacific Region metattheParliamentofNewZealand Political leaders from 15 Pacific countries andterritories from to addresshumantraffickingandforcedlabour Commonwealth ParliamentariansfromtheAsia-PacificmeetinWesternAustralia New ZealandforthePacificParliamentaryForum Commonwealth ParliamentariansfromtheCPAPacificRegioncometogetherin The three-day event also looked in detail at the issue of ‘orphanage The three-dayeventalsolooked in detailattheissueof‘orphanage The GlobalSlaveryIndex,producedbytheMinderoo During the firsttwodays of the forum in November 2019, The Parliamentarian |2020:Issue One|100 human traffickingandforcedlabour. and to share information, challenges and progress in combatting Australia. TheaimoftheNetwork istocreateregionalcollaboration read outonthefloorofchamber intheParliamentofWestern Members made pledges as part of their induction, which they themselves tojoin the Network ofParliamentaryChampions. about herexperiences. awareness of‘orphanagetrafficking’-addressedthedelegates Australia’s ModernSlaveryBill2018-andhasbeenraising CSC, whowastheMinisterresponsibleforpassage of initiatives topromoteincreasedfemaleparticipation. Parliamentarians from the Region to discuss gender equality and Suisuiki, MP (New Zealand) also met with anumber of Region Steering Committee Member, Ms Anahila Kanongata'a- and politicalcohesion.” build on existing relationships and promote increased cooperation Pacific Parliamentariansandtheforumisavaluableopportunityto shores. TheNewZealandParliamentiscommittedtosupporting Parliamentary Forum and to welcome fellow Pacific MPs to our Mallard, MPsaid: Parliaments playwithinademocraticsystem. was onexploringthevalueof‘diversity’invariousfunctionsthat focus fortheforumin2019,andtopicofonedebates, and workshopsattheNewZealandParliamentinWellington.Akey importance totheCPAPacificRegionthroughaseriesofdebates Zealand MPs. also visitedtheelectorateofficesofseveralAuckland-basedNew Institute of Technology and the TROW Group. The Pacific MPs Auckland. OrganisationsinvolvedincludeTheFono,theManukau At theconclusionofworkshop,delegatesnominated Australia’s Minister for Defence, Senator Hon. Linda Reynolds, The CommonwealthWomenParliamentarians(CWP)Pacific The SpeakeroftheParliamentNewZealand,RtHon.Trevor The finaltwodaysoftheforumfocusedonexploringissues “It isarealpleasuretohostthethirdPacific th anniverary issue1920-2020 |15 CPA NEWS

For more images of CPA activities and events please visit www.cpahq.org/cpahq/flickr. 16 |TheParliamentarian | 2020: IssueOne|100 other, so no knowledge or value of an activity gets lost. other, sonoknowledgeorvalue ofanactivitygetslost. activities deliveredundermy chairwomenship buildoneach Speaker of the Parliament of Malta, but also to ensure that the the excellentworkofmypredecessor, Hon.AngeloFarrugia, this Network.Mygoalforthenextthreeyearsistocarryforward 2019 andsaid: embarked onherchairwomanshipofthenetworkinNovember Niki Rattle, Speaker of the Parliament of the Cook Islands, who the recentlyelectedCPASmallBranchesChairperson,Hon. Development was the first delivered under the leadership of Services Corporation. visit toseeasustainablewaterplantrunbytheMaltaWater Small StatesCentreofExcellence;aswellundertakingasite University ofMalta;GabriellaCassolafromtheCommonwealth Specialist; DrStefanoMoncada,SmallStatesspecialistfromthe including Vernon Barrett, International Sustainable Development Helena, StLuciaandTurksCaicos. Man, Jersey,Malta,NorthernTerritory,Perlis,Seychelles,St British VirginIslands,CaymanCookFiji,Isleof Alderney, AustralianCapitalTerritory,TheBahamas,Barbados, Participants present in Malta represented the CPA Branches of Oxfam andtheSmallStatesNetworkforEconomicDevelopment. Nations ConferenceonTradeandDevelopment(UNCTAD), attend, aswellinternationalorganisationssuchtheUnited Parliamentarians whounderwentathoroughselectionprocessto Programme (UNEP)inNairobi,Kenya2018. hosted bytheUnitedNationsEnvironment climate changeonCPASmallBranches first beingaseminarontheeffectsof CPA SmallBranchesNetwork,withthe jurisdictions byformallyestablishingthe focus thattheCPAhasputontoitssmall workshop sincetherenewedstrategic climate changeandfoodsecurity. independence, oceanmanagementand equality, renewable energyand tourism sector,education,integrationand for small states, the development of the Excellence. Itdiscussedtradeopportunities the CommonwealthSmallStatesCentreof Headquarters Secretariatinpartnershipwith of MaltaanddeliveredbytheCPA programme was hosted bytheParliament of boosting their economies. The CPA met in Malta to discuss sustainable ways jurisdictions acrosstheCommonwealth Over 20 seniorParliamentarians from sustainable waysofboostingtheireconomies Commonwealth ParliamentariansfromsmalljurisdictionsmeetinMaltatodiscuss The CPA Small Branches Workshop on Sustainable Economic The CPASmallBranchesWorkshoponSustainableEconomic Delegates heardfromawiderangeofinternationalexperts In Malta,theCPAprogrammesawparticipationofsenior The CPAprogrammewasthesecond CPA NEWS “I am immensely proud to be the Chairperson of “I amimmenselyproudtobetheChairpersonof th anniversary issue1920-2020 international delegates. attended theCPAprogramme inMaltaalongwithanumberof effect.” many localresourcepersonshavesharedtheirknowledgetothat topic intermsofeconomicactivity,andIampleasedtoseethat believe thatmyowncountry,Malta,hasalottocontributethis work hasbeencarriedforwardfeedingintothisworkshop.Also, I on strategyandclimatechange,Iampleasedtoseethatthis activity nowcomestofruition.Duringmytermofoffice,Ifocussed development aroseinearly2019,andIamdelightedthatthis jurisdiction. Theideaofaworkshoponsustainableeconomic the recently elected Small Branches Chairperson to my own for the past three years, I am immensely proud to welcome been theSmallBranchesChairpersonforthisinspiringNetwork host thiseventinhishomejurisdictionofMaltaandsaid: Parliament ofMalta,Hon.AngeloFarrugia,isparticularlyproudto Parliaments faceandthepotentialsolutions.” a lottocontributewhenitcomesoutliningthechallengessmall of myregion’sexperiencesintothisforum,sinceIbelievewehave you. RepresentingtheCPAPacificRegion,Iwillalsobringmore better resultstothepeopleovertime.Thisismycommitment democracies willgrowfromstrengthtoanddelivereven challenges diminish. That way, our Parliaments and our Parliaments are facing and to ensure that over time, these The ActingCPASecretary-General,MrJarvisMatiyaalso Former CPASmallBranchesChairpersonandSpeakerofthe It is the aim of our Network to tackle the challenges small “Having “Having range of approaches to climate change, the results from the latest range of approaches to climate change, the results from the latest The toolkithoweverdoesmuch more thanthis:itencapsulatesthe the ClimateChangeWorkshop inNairobireflectedthistoolkit. CPA SmallBranchesNetwork, Iamproudtoseetheresultsof at thetopofmyagendaduring mytenureasChairpersonofthe “Putting the sustainability of our knowledge sharing and learning economic developmentinsmalljurisdictions.Hon.NikiRattlesaid: activity, a workshop that took place in Malta focusing on sustainable margins oftheCPASmallBranches’secondformalprogrammatic Niki Rattle, Speaker ofthe Parliament of the Cook Islands, inthe by the Chairperson of the CPA Small Branches Network, Hon. held inSeptember2019,Kampala,Uganda. workshop sessionduringthe37 from CPASmallBranchParliamentariansat the climatechange climate changeaction.Thetoolkitwasalsohelpedbycontributions guidance forsmallstateParliamentariansembarkinguponeffective legislators featuring the latest climate science, and with practical Malta, suggestedthecreationofanup-to-date,practicalguidefor Network, Hon.AngeloFarrugia,SpeakeroftheParliament gained globally, the former Chairperson of the CPA Small Branches recommendations forlegislatorsacrosstheCommonwealth. with top-tierexpertsfromtheUnitedNationsandformulatedpolicy Programme (UNEP)inNairobi,Kenya.Parliamentariansengaged Climate Change Workshop at the United Nations Environment representing fiveCPARegionsmetfortheSmallBranches Commonwealth ParliamentariansfromeightCPABranches this understanding. Change ToolkitforCPASmallBranchParliamentarians this challenge. The launch of a and have played, a crucial role in tackling states and their Parliamentarians can play, community, theCPAbelievesthatsmall requires the support of the international change. issues which face them, including climate Parliamentarians, totacklethesignificant small statesand territories, andtheir network, hassupportedandempowered (CPA), throughitsCPASmallBranches Commonwealth ParliamentaryAssociation history engagingwithsmallLegislatures,the from its effects. In continuation of its long beyond whowillsufferdisproportionately and territoriesoftheCommonwealth emissions, itishowever,thesmallstates contributing leasttoglobalgreenhousegas touching every nation on earth. Despite change isaglobalconcern,itsimpacts The contemporarychallengefromclimate Commonwealth ParliamentaryAssociation Climate ChangeandSmallStates:Parliamentarian’sToolkitlaunchedbythe The CPA Small Branches Climate Change toolkit was launched The CPASmallBranchesClimateChangetoolkitwaslaunched Given the recent momentum that the climate change agenda has Given the recent momentum that the climate change agenda has The developmentofthetoolkitbeganin2018,when Although combattingclimatechange th CPA Climate CPA Climate CPA Small Branches Conference, CPASmallBranchesConference, is built on isbuilton The Parliamentarian |2020:Issue One|100 the CPASmallBranches ClimateChangeToolkitfor Parliamentarians. Visit big.” can achieve more, if we dare to think Small Branchesnetwork-together we by thistoolkitwiththeCPAand resulting fromtheactivitiesinspired Parliamentarians to sharecasestudies - andevenmore.Istronglyencourage publication willachievewhatitaimsto change; Iamconvincedthatthis Network are on the issue ofclimate engaged theParliamentariansofthis Hon. NikiRattle.Havingseenhow of mydistinguishedcolleague,theSpeakerCookIslands, thrilled toseeitlaunchedinmyjurisdictionundertheleadership office asChairpersonoftheSmallBranchesnetworkandIam the creation of this important piece of research under my term in publication ofthetoolkitasfollows: Parliament ofMalta,Hon.AngeloFarrugia,commentedonthe small branchesresultingfromthispublication.” much lookforwardtoseetheresultsofparliamentaryactivityacross community onsuchsignificantissuesasclimatechange.Ivery This will enable us to progress even further as a parliamentary toolkit andsharetheirexperienceslessonswiththeNetwork. of the Small Branches to adopt the calls for action outlined in the climate change agenda. I therefore encourage the membership Parliamentarians from small jurisdictions to maketheir mark on the scientific research,anddetailsinnovativeactionablestepsfor Former CPA Small Branches Chairperson and Speaker of the Former CPASmall Branches Chairperson and Speaker ofthe to download a copy of www.cpahq.org/cpahq/SBclimatechange todownloadacopyof “I am proud to have initiated “I amproudtohaveinitiated th anniverary issue1920-2020 |17 CPA NEWS

For more images of CPA activities and events please visit www.cpahq.org/cpahq/flickr. 18 |TheParliamentarian | 2020: IssueOne|100 subscription fees, to invest in the high-end hospitality industry. The subscription fees,toinvestinthe high-endhospitalityindustry.The financing from the Indonesia Exim Bank and, with its accumulated project forthenewfive-starhotel inDodoma. company linkedwithIndonesiaExim Banktoexploretheconstruction signed theMoUwithPTWijaya Karya, aJakarta-basedconstruction vehicle, CommonwealthInvestmentCompanyLimited(CICL),have for theAfricaRegion.TheCPARegion,throughitsinvestment US$33m five-starhotelinDodoma,Tanzaniaasaninvestmentvehicle WIKA Constructiontowardsthefinancingandconstructionofa new of Understanding(MoU)withtheIndonesiaEximBank(LPEI)and The CPAAfricaRegionalSecretariathassignedaMemorandum CPA AfricaRegionsignMoUtobringIndonesia investmenttoTanzania changing needsofmodernParliaments. in supportingemergingproceduresandpracticestoembracethe Speakers andPresidingOfficersdiscussedtheroleofSpeaker special plenarysessionwasalsoheldoninclusiveParliamentswhere Parliamentarians as effective legislators and representatives. A engagement: openness,transparencyandaccountability;on Anthony Rota,MP. Hon. George Furey and the Speaker of the House of Commons, Hon. Parliaments werehostedbytheSenateofCanada’sSpeaker,Senator 2020. Speakers and Presiding Officers from 37 Commonwealth of theCommonwealth(CSPOC)whichtookplacefrom6to10January in Canadaforthe25 Speakers andPresidingOfficersfromacrosstheCommonwealthmet Speakers meetinCanadaforthe25 which focusedontheroleofSpeakerswithinparliamentary by Hon.LucienLamoureux,27 Commonwealth washeldinCanada1969,aninitiativecreated very firstConferenceofSpeakersandPresidingOfficersthe Anthony Rota,MPsaid: and byourcommitmenttoparliamentarydemocracy.” Commonwealth –weareunitedbyourdiversity,sharedhistory Presiding OfficersConferencetakesplaceundertheauspicesof of government.ItisnosurprisethattheCommonwealthSpeakersand correspondingly, the more our citizens will have faith in our systems the stronger debates and parliamentary processes can be, and more effectiveweareinourrolesasSpeakersandPresidingOfficers, common goodfortheprosperityoftheirpeople.” their smarts,willandresourcestogethertoadvancethe can doandachievewhentheyworktogetherput traditions. Itisincrediblewhatdifferentpeopleandnations to share values, to share languages and to share parliamentary big, poortorich,weareallunited,andcometogether,bychoice, representing almostathirdoftheworld’spopulation.Fromsmallto different members that touch every single continent of this planet, is aremarkableunionofdiversenationsandjurisdictionswith53 of Canada.TheGovernor-Generalsaid: Her ExcellencyRtHon.JuliePayetteataceremonyheldintheSenate Commonwealth wasopenedbytheGovernor-GeneralofCanada, and accountability Officers oftheCommonwealthtodiscussparliamentaryengagement,transparency The CPA Africa Regional Secretariat intends to secure additional The CPAAfricaRegionalSecretariat intendstosecureadditional The 25 The biennialconferencefocusedonthetopicsofparliamentary The Speaker of the House of Commons of Canada, Hon. The Speaker oftheSenate of Canada, Hon. George Furey said: CPA NEWS th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the ConferenceofSpeakersandPresidingOfficersthe th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers ConferenceofSpeakersandPresidingOfficers “It is a matter of great pride to us that the “It isamatterofgreatpridetousthatthe th Speaker of the House of Commons SpeakeroftheHouseCommons th anniversary issue1920-2020 “The Commonwealth “The Commonwealth “The “The th Conference of Speakers and Presiding ConferenceofSpeakersandPresiding Gambia recently became the 64 national CPABranchesand45 SubnationalCPABranches).The Tanzania andtheCPAAfricaRegion has63CPABranches(18 meeting withtheCPAAfricaRegion tosigntheMoU. Minister ofStateforInvestment,Hon. AngelaMbelwaKairukiaswell delegation metwiththeEastAfricanCommunityandTanzania on behalfoftheIndonesianInfrastructureTaskForceforAfricaand the Luhut BinsarPandjaitanledadelegationfromIndonesiatoTanzania showed positiveindicatorsintheintendedinvestment. MoU is the initial step after a pre-feasibility study was conducted that formal admission totheCPA. Officers oftheCommonwealth(CSPOC)pleasevisit For moreinformationabouttheConferenceofSpeakersandPresiding meetings tobeheldinGuernsey2021andTrinidadTobago2023. 2022 andUgandain2024,withadditionalCSPOCStandingCommittee every twoyears.ThenexthostsforthebiennialconferenceareAustraliain operates on a two-year cycle, holding a conference of the full membership also membersoftheCommonwealthParliamentaryAssociation.CSPOC a separateindependentorganisation,althoughmanyofitsparticipantsare Parliaments oftheCommonwealth.CSPOCwascreatedin1969andis on the sharingof experiences, collaborationand partnershipacross the Officers oftheParliamentsandLegislaturesCommonwealth.Itfocuses The CSPOCconferencebringstogethertheSpeakersandPresiding a traditionalwelcometodelegates. Algonquin people,MrsClaudetteCommanda,Eldergave various formsandtodevelopparliamentaryinstitutions.” knowledge and understanding of parliamentary democracy in the of SpeakersandPresidingOfficersParliaments,topromote maintain, fosterandencourageimpartialityfairnessonthepart institutions. Then,astoday,theaimofconferencewasto The CPA Africa Regional Secretariat has its headquarters in Dodoma, The CPAAfricaRegionalSecretariat hasitsheadquartersinDodoma, The Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Hon. To mark the ceremony being held on the traditional lands of the th CPA Branch in the Region after its CPA Branch in the Region after its www.cspoc.org.

Images courtesy: Parliament of Canada/Parliament of Uganda. reflective ofsociety. age andeducationalbackground,ensurethatParliamentistruly culture in Westminster, to improve diversity inallaspects including opportunity tolookattheworkbeingdoneadoptamoreinclusive on diversity within Parliament. This discussion gave delegates the Networks and Diversity and Inclusion teams, for a session focussed of speakersfromacrosstheUKParliament’sWorkplaceEquality their Legislatures.Followingthis,delegatesheardfromarange parliamentary processesinordertoensuretheeffectivenessof need forParliamentarianstohaveasenseofownershipovertheir importance on maintaining ties within the Commonwealth, and the and formerBritishHighCommissionertoSouthAfrica,whoplaced Boateng, aformerUKMPandnowMemberoftheHouseLords Ugandan context. systems ofGibraltarandPakistan,parliamentaryprivilegesinthe also shared their insight with colleagues, including on the Committee and the impact of Committees. Commonwealth Parliamentarians pressures onaParliamentarian,holdingthePrimeMinistertoaccount Parliamentarians, academicsandexpertsonareasincludingthe topics throughout the week, participants were able to hear from UK Parliamentarian inaneffectiveParliament.Touchingonarangeof Parliament andCPAUKBranch,designedtoexploretheroleofa of publicservices. expenditure andholdtheirgovernments toaccountforthedelivery effective intheirremittoscrutinise thevalueformoneyofpublic cooperation andtohelpPACs fromtheregionbecomemore Delegates werebroughttogether inordertostrengthenregional from six Public Accounts Committees (PACs) from the region. how toeffectivelyscrutinisefinancialstatements. General fromTrinidadandTobagoleadaninteractiveworkshop on effective questioningtechniques.GaryPeters,AssistantAuditor- Committee andfurthersessionslookedathearings Meg Hillier,MP,theChairofUKParliament’sPublicAccounts Committees thatareeffective,independentandtransparent. the integrityofgovernment.ThisisachievedthroughPublicAccounts oversight playsanimportantroleinpreservingthetrustofcitizens in governance andreaffirmingthatstrongindependentParliamentary Commonwealth PublicAccountsCommitteesinpromotinggood Tobago, Hon.BridgidAnnisette-George,MP. House ofRepresentativesattheParliamentTrinidadand three-day workshopwashostedbytheSpeakerof Trinidad andTobagofrom21to23January2020.The Public Accounts Committees (CAPAC) in Port of Spain, regional workshopoftheCommonwealthAssociation Americas andAtlanticRegionparticipatedinthethird Commonwealth ParliamentariansfromtheCPACaribbean, took part inthe68 Forty Parliamentariansfromthirty-twoCommonwealthLegislatures workshop inTrinidadandTobago Focus onfinancialscrutinyinCommonwealthParliamentsatCAPACregional Parliamentarians attend68 The seminar keynote speech was delivered by Rt Hon. Lord Paul The seminarkeynotespeechwasdeliveredbyRtHon.LordPaul The workshop was attended by the Chairs, Members and Clerks The workshop was attended by the Chairs, Members and Clerks The workshopincludedakeynoteaddressviavideomessagefrom The regionalworkshopfocusedontheworkof th Westminster Seminar, hosted by the UK Westminster Seminar, hosted bythe UK th WestminsterSeminaronEffectiveParliaments The Parliamentarian |2020:Issue One|100 sharing process. the strongnetworksbuiltoverweektocontinueknowledge over theclosingceremonyandencourageddelegatestomaintain change. work translatestothenationallevel,inbringingabouteffective from ProvincialAssembliesandsmallerLegislatures,howtheir Delegates alsodiscusseddemocracyatthelocallevelwithdelegates parliamentary democracy;andtheUK’spolicyoncybersecurity. which lookedatthegrowingimportanceofsocialmediaina importance ofpublicparticipation;socialmediaanddemocracy, good governanceandfinancial scrutiny. work ofCommonwealthPublicAccounts Committeesinpromoting of CommonwealthParliaments andisdesignedtosupportthe Members ofPublicAccountsand equivalentfinancialCommittees (CAPAC) wasconstitutedin June2014bytheChairsand preceding regionalworkshops. to reportonprogressmadeinlinewithaimsandobjectivesof the for all CPA Regions and individual Public Accounts Committees will takeplaceinLondonMarch2020andbeanopportunity South EastAsiaworkshops,afinalpan-Commonwealthworkshop by theCPAUKBranch.FollowingpreviousPacific,Asia and Commonwealth PartnershipforDemocracy(CP4D)anddelivered Committee andfinancialoversightintheCaribbeanRegion. shared theexperienceofCaymanIslandsPublicAccounts Bush, Speaker of Cayman Islands Legislative Assembly who by the CPA SmallBranches Vice-Chairperson, Hon. W. McKeeva Former CPA Chairperson, Rt Hon. Lord Haselhurst presided Former CPAChairperson,RtHon.LordHaselhurstpresided Other sessions wereheldon Public Engagement,looking at the The Commonwealth Association of Public Accounts Committees The Commonwealth Associationof Public Accounts Committees The CAPACregionalworkshopsarefundedbythe The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association was represented th anniverary issue1920-2020 |19 CPA NEWS

For more images of CPA activities and events please visit www.cpahq.org/cpahq/flickr. 20 |TheParliamentarian | 2020: IssueOne|100 across theCommonwealthtotakeastand the 10 Parliamentarians havebeeninspiredat The Commonwealth’s future leaders and 10 infrastructure for mycountry’sNationalYouthParliament.” the immenseknowledgeIgained hereandcreatingabetter I started this fight and why I must never stop! I plan on sharing Commonwealth’s brightest,for allowingmetorememberwhy indebted totheCPA,forallowing metobesurroundedbythe to havebeenchosenrepresent mycountry.Iwillforeverbe and sodriven.” from allYouthParliamentarians.Allareamazinglykind,passionate experience forever.Itwassonicegettingtomeet,knowandlearn the mostamazingdaysofmylifeandIamgoingtocherishthis couldn’t beprouderofeveryonewhotookpart.” impact onourdevelopmentaspeopleandhowweviewtheworld. I how bringingyoung people fromacross the globe can make a huge societies. Bondsandconnectionswereformed,whichhighlights and passionatepeoplewhowanttoseechangeinourpolitics came together to cooperate and work as a group of like-minded to seeisthatnomatterourbackgrounds,cultureanddiversity-we legislation are. Saying this, the most vital message that was clear diversity withinglobalpoliticsandhowvariedallofoursystems of theparliamentaryandlegislativesystem,butIlearntabout the event as follows: fictional ‘Commonwealthland’. procedures, debatinglegislationandmotionsinrelationtothe The programmealsoincludedtakingpartinparliamentary real-life situationintheLegislativeAssemblyofDelhi’schamber. Participants experiencedParliamentina behind theprocesses ofParliament. Parliamentarians tothefundamentals office andintroducedthesepotentialyoung Commonwealth withambitionsofpublic opportunity for young people from the Parliament providedakeydevelopment four daysoftheCommonwealthYouth Branches* acrossnineCPARegions.The the smallest(Tonga),andfrom33CPA the Commonwealth(India)tooneof ranging fromthelargestdemocracyin 29 years,camefromthirteencountries, in theAssemblychambers. issues ofconcernasYouthParliamentarians November 2019,participantsdebated Assembly inDelhi,Indiafrom24to28 Association (CPA) and the Delhi Legislative Hosted bytheCommonwealthParliamentary climate change,theSDGsandurbanisation. (#CYP10) totakeastandonissuessuchas Jordan Hutcheson from The Bahamas said: Pragya Sagar from India said: Youth delegate Talulah Thomas representing Wales summarized Youth delegateTalulahThomasrepresentingWalessummarized The 47 delegates, aged between 18 and th CPA NEWS Commonwealth Youth Parliament in India inspires future young leaders from CommonwealthYouthParliamentinIndiainspiresfutureyoungleadersfrom th CommonwealthYouthParliament “Not only did I gain a deeper understanding “Not only did I gain a deeper understanding “The past few days have been th anniversary issue1920-2020 “I am honoured of society.Thedecisiontohost the10 long recognisedtheimportance ofyoungpeopletothefuture Delhi Branchand the CPA India RegionalSecretariat.Indiahas Legislative Assembly in Delhi, India, together with the CPA Commonwealth youth beyond its own shores. As an Association Commonwealth youthbeyonditsownshores. As anAssociation young people,butalsoawidercommitment tothedevelopmentof Parliament showsnotonlyacommitment toempoweritsown aggressive in holding the government accountable.” aggressive inholdingthegovernmentaccountable.” Youth ParliamentandGirlsTakeoverjustbemore the programmeisnecessary.IwanttoapplythisinTonga this knowledge someday, and I guarantee it will be crucial, so who alsoactedastheSpeakerof10 MPL fromtheGautengProvincialLegislatureinSouthAfrica Commonwealth whoactedasmentors–Hon.FasihaHassan, opportunity withcurrentyoungMembersofParliamentfromthe pan-Commonwealth experienceandahugelyvaluablenetworking Robinson, MP from The Bahamas Parliament. Robinson, MPfromTheBahamasParliament. Birla, SpeakeroftheLokSabha,ParliamentIndia. National AssemblyofCameroon;andthechiefguest:ShriOm International ExecutiveCommitteeandDeputySpeakerofthe Delhi; Hon.EmiliaMonjowaLifaka,MP,ChairpersonoftheCPA of theDelhiAssembly;ShriArvindKejriwal,ChiefMinister of saw welcomeaddressesbyShriRamNiwasGoel,theSpeaker to hold the 10 The 10 Mele FonuafromTongasaid: The 10 The CPAChairpersonsaid: th th Commonwealth Youth Parliament gave participants a CommonwealthYouthParliamentgaveparticipantsa Commonwealth Youth Parliament opening ceremony th Commonwealth Youth Parliament at the Delhi “I amdelightedthatweareable “I’m going to run for office with “I’m goingtorunforofficewith th Commonwealth Youth CommonwealthYouth th CYP and Hon. Travis CYPandHon.Travis Constitution makers ofIndiahavebeenentrusted withthe He alsosaidthatIndiaappreciates theCommonwealthand of Indiandemocracyisinlinewith thespiritofCommonwealth. has playedanimportantroleinfacilitating democracyandthespirit Governor ofUttarPradesh,Hon. AnandibenPatel. Leader oftheOpposition,Hon.RamGovindChaudharyand the by theChiefMinisterofUttarPradesh,Hon.YogiAdityanath, the opening sessionoftheRegionalConferencewasalsoaddressed India RegionalConferencewouldstrengthendemocracy.The the RegionalConferenceandsaidthatoutcomesofCPA Assembly, Hon.HridayNarayanDixitwhowelcomeddelegates to Pradesh BranchandtheSpeakerofUttarLegislative and socio-economicprogressofthepeople.” and socialjustice,asalsofordevelopmentofscientifictemperament played acrucialroleinparticipativedemocracy,socialintegration work tousherinsocial,economicandpoliticalchanges.Ithas it isamatterofprideforus.Parliamenthasdonecommendable democratic systemofgovernance.Withthisbeingourresponsibility, in the world. Wehave preserved our Constitution and and said: Om Birla,MPinauguratedtheRegionalConference Speaker oftheLokSabha,IndiaParliament,Hon.Shri Lucknow, UttarPradesh,from15to18January2020. CPA IndiaRegionalConferenceheldforthefirsttimein reaffirmed theircommitmenttodemocracyatthe7 role inthesustainabledevelopmentagendaand across IndiahaverenewedtheirfocusonParliament’s Over 100 Commonwealth Parliamentarians from approach throughoutthecourseofprogramme.” change intheirrespectivecommunities,withanenthusiastic as wellinstillinganunwaveringverveinthemtoaffectpositive allow themtoexperiencetheinnerworkingsofourdemocracy, opportunity to aid the development of their leadership abilities, the Commonwealthisaterrifichonour.Wewilltakethisfantastic cavalcade ofyoungpeoplerepresentingmanynationsfromacross Assembly, said: investment fornowandthefuture.” have a proven capability to leadchange and are a vital and valuable primarily forParliamentarians,werecognisethatyoungpeople at 7 Commonwealth Parliamentariansfromthelargestdemocracyinworldgather future andtofosterinternationalcooperationgoodgovernance. people to a professional sphere they potentially may occupy in the interpersonal skills.The#CYP10isdesignedtointroduceyoung environment foryouthParliamentarianstodeveloptheirdebatingand • •

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath said that the CPA Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath said that the CPA The CPARegionalConferencewashostedbytheUttar The Chairperson of the CPA India Region and The 10 Hon. RamNiwasGoel,MLA,SpeakerofDelhiLegislative For imagesvisit To view proceedingsof 10 https://www.facebook.com/dvsdelhi/. th CPA India Regional Conference in Uttar Pradesh CPAIndiaRegionalConferenceinUttarPradesh th “India's democracy is the largest democracy “India's democracy is the largest democracy CommonwealthYouthParliamentengendersan www.cpahq.org/cpahq/flickr “To welcome and host such an enormous th Commonwealth YouthParliamentvisit and #CYP10 on Twitter. and #CYP10onTwitter.

The Parliamentarian |2020:Issue One|100 implementing throughassistedself-assessments. Legislatures whichmanyCommonwealthParliaments are highlighted theCPARecommendedBenchmarksforDemocratic General, MrJarvisMatiyasentavideomessagetodelegatesand standard oftheHouse'smeetings.TheCPAActingSecretary- the efficiencyofpeople'srepresentativesandimproving their rolethroughprotectingunityandintegrity. responsibility ofpreservingdemocracyandsoeveryonehastoplay countries. also attended from Australia, Malaysia and other Commonwealth the largestdemocracyof Commonwealth. Representatives Legislatures acrossIndia,oneof themostpopulatedregionsand (Rajya SabhaandLokSabha) and thirty-onestateprovincial and MembersofParliamentfromthenationalIndia India RegionalExecutiveCommittee. Parliament, Hon.ShriOm Birla, MP chaireda meeting of the CPA Regional ChairpersonandSpeakeroftheLokSabha,India • •

Ahead of7 During thetwo-dayconference,discussionsincludedincreasing The CPA India Regional Conference brought together Speakers The CPAIndiaRegionalConferencebroughttogetherSpeakers Pradesh (India);UnitedKingdom;Wales;WestBengal(India). (India); RajasthanSouthAustralia;SriLanka;Tonga;Uganda;Uttar (Australia); NewZealand;North-WestProvince(SouthAfrica);Odisha (India); Malawi;Malaysia;Mauritius;Montserrat;Namibia;NewSouthWales Haryana (India);HimachalPradeshIndiaUnion;Jersey;Kerala Islands; Free State (South Africa); Gauteng (South Africa); Gibraltar; South Australia;Bahamas;Barbados;BritishColumbia(Canada);Falkland Australian Capital Territory (Australia); New South Wales (Australia); *The fulllistofCPABranchesbeingrepresentedatthe10thCYPwere: Caribbean, Americas&Atlantic;Canada;India;Pacific;South-EastAsia. nine CPARegions–Africa;Asia;Australia;BritishIslands&Mediterranean; popular programmesbringingtogetherparticipantsaged18-29representing The CommonwealthYouthParliament(CYP)isoneoftheCPA’smost th CPAIndiaRegionalConference,the th anniverary issue1920-2020 |21 CPA NEWS

For more images of CPA activities and events please visit www.cpahq.org/cpahq/flickr. 22 |TheParliamentarian | 2020: IssueOne|100 Speaker oftheHouseAssembly oftheParliamentBarbados. Sir RichardCheltenham,President oftheSenate,andGlineA.Clarke,Deputy Barbados, wheretheyhadthe opportunitytoholdtalkswithSenatorsledby Trinidad andTobagoBranch. Representatives, Hon.BridgidAnnisette-George, MPandmembersoftheCPA of theSenate,SenatorHon.ChristineKangaloo;Speaker oftheHouse Ratansi, MP.InTrinidadandTobago,Canadiandelegatesmet with thePresident Territorial LegislatureswithCaribbeanParliaments. partners andtofacilitatetwinningprogrammesbetweentheCanadian Provincialand as part of the Canadian Region’s mandate to strengthen bonds with Commonwealth undertaken visitstotwoCPABranchesintheCaribbean,Americas and AtlanticRegion Commonwealth ParliamentariansfromtheCPACanadaFederal Branchhave CPA CanadavisitTrinidadandTobago Barbados communities’ diversity - whether increasing ethnic diversity for the communities’ diversity -whether increasing ethnic diversity for the share howHRinitiativesworkwithinthatenvironment.” a uniqueenvironmentandIthinkit’sreallyimportantforustobeable Senior PeoplePartner,ParliamentofVictoria,said. environments,” ClareMcMullan,DepartmentofParliamentaryServices while wehavesimilarchallenges,alloperatewithinvery different this forumI’vereallydevelopedanunderstandingofthefactthat from NewZealandemployment,law,anddiversityspecialists. workforces; andsupportingnewwaysofworking,presentations parliamentary staff;culture;buildingdiverse and Pacificregionshavecometogether.” time that human resources colleagues from across the Australia ideas between parliamentary agencies. This forum was the first added that House andCPANewZealandBranchSecretary,DavidWilson, characteristics andchallengesthatotherorganisationsdonot.” While eachofourLegislaturesareunique,weallsharecommon leadership, andculturewithintheagenciesthatsupportthem. that Parliamentary ServiceRafaelGonzalez-Montero,whoremarked resources andpeopleleadershipspace. ways to address common obstacles in the human to share ideas, build networks, and develop new attended theforuminFebruary2020,designed National Parliaments in the CPA Pacific Region Parliaments intheCPAAustraliaRegionand than 45delegatesfromNationalandState Parliamentary HumanResourcesForum.More 15 CPA Branches for the inaugural Regional of NewZealandplayedhosttoofficialsfrom The CPANewZealandBranchandtheParliament New Zealand Inaugural RegionalParliamentaryHumanResourcesForumhostedbyCPA In Barbados,theCanadiandelegation attended debates in theSenateof The delegationwasledbytheCPACanadaBranchChairperson, Hon.Yasmin One keydiscussionwasbuildingworkforcesthatreflect “Initially, youthinkthatParliamentsarecreatedequal,butthroughout Sessions includedservicestomembersofParliamentand The co-convenoroftheforum,NewZealandClerk The forumwastheideaofChiefExecutiveNewZealand “a Parliament’s effectiveness relies on the quality of the people, “a Parliament’seffectivenessreliesonthequalityofpeople, CPA NEWS “inter-parliamentary forums are a great way of sharing “inter-parliamentary forumsareagreatwayofsharing th anniversary issue1920-2020 “Parliament is such “Parliament issuch another forum. for aregionalparliamentaryhumanresourcesnetworkandplans By the forum’s end, delegates had developed terms of reference Parliament’s TaiaKiwa-StrongerPacificParliamentsprogramme. we canimprovebackinFiji.” and bicameralparliaments.“Ithasgivenussomeinsightsintohow administration, particularlycontrastingservicedeliveryinunicameral more experiencedprofessionalsintheforum” General SefanaiaTudonufounditvaluable because wedidn’tknowhowtogettheresources,butnowdo.” learning anddevelopmentinitiativeswehadn’tdonewithourstaff take backtoourParliamentimprovehowwework,”shesaid.“Some good to share ideas because itopens our minds. It gives us ideas to Human ResourcesManagerattheSolomonIslandsParliament. Parliaments wasahighlightoftheforumforJoycelynKiluaHevalao, staff equity.Learningaboutsoftwareandtechnologyusedbyother to address unconscious bias, and developing frameworks to ensure attract diversepoolsofapplicants,becomingawareandtakingsteps communities weresimilar,includingcreatingrecruitmentstrategiesto reaching retirementage. Parliament ofTasmaniaorpreparingforFijianstaffsoon The Pacific delegates attended with support from New Zealand The PacificdelegatesattendedwithsupportfromNewZealand Fiji HeadofFinance,AdministrationandIT,OfficetheSecretary Despite theirdifferentcontexts,manyoftheapproachestoreflect “learning fromthe about Parliament aboutParliament “It’s “It’s Samoa; Solomon Islands; Tonga; Niue and Tuvalu. The following Samoa; Solomon Islands;Tonga;NiueandTuvalu. Thefollowing attending the forum as observers: Cook Islands; Kiribati; Nauru; Singapore andCanada;withthe followingCPASmallBranches the followingCPABranches:Australia; Fiji;NewZealand;Malaysia; development withourfellowParliaments aroundtheworld.” to promoteunderstanding,sharingofknowledgeanddemocratic the AustralianParliament’sInternationalProgramme,whichhelps in thePacificIslandForum.EventssuchasAPPF28formpart of at thisyear'sforum,wearewelcomingdelegatesfromcountries with colleaguesfromaroundtheworld.I’mespeciallypleasedthat an incredible opportunity for Parliamentarians to share experiences Speaker said:“SincethefirstAPPFin1993,forumhasbeen discussed genderrepresentationandequality.TheAustralian economics andtrade,regionalcooperation.Membersalso to discussawiderangeofsubjectssuchassecurity, Hall andwelcomedover350delegatesfrom30countries Parliamentary Forum in the ParliamentofAustralia’s Great climate changeatthe28 Australia andPacificRegionsfocusedontheimpactof Commonwealth ParliamentariansfromacrosstheCPA Caicos IslandsandtheBritishVirginIslands.Theinitiativewas Falkland Islands,Gibraltar,Montserrat,StHelena,Turksand from CPABranchesinAnguilla,Bermuda,CaymanIslands, from 9to11December2019andwas the issueofpublicfinancialoversightandgoodgovernance. Overseas TerritoriesProjectbroughttogetherkeyactorstoexplore held its latest workshop in London, UK. This thirdForum of the UK and ExternalAuditagenciesfromtheUKOverseasTerritorieshas Committees (PACs),parliamentaryclerksandtheheadsofInternal An innovativeprojectbringingtogethertheChairsofPublicAccounts Branches at28 Climate change onthe agenda forCommonwealth Parliamentarians from CPA commit toworktogetheronoversightofpublicfinances Commonwealth ParliamentariansandAuditorsfromtheUKOverseasTerritories Hon. TonySmith,MPopenedthe28 change inrecentnaturaldisasters. few months and delegates also debated the role of climate into sharpfocusbythetragicAustralianbushfiresin last The issueofclimatechangeintheregionhasbeenbrought (APPF28) inAustraliaheld from13to16January2020. Commonwealth delegatesattending theAPPF28represented The OversightofPublicFinancesandGovernanceForumran The Speaker of the Australian House of Representatives, The SpeakeroftheAustralianHouseRepresentatives, th th Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum Asia-PacificParliamentaryForum Asia-PacificParliamentaryForuminAustralia

attended byrepresentatives th Asia-Pacific

The Parliamentarian |2020:Issue One|100 1993 inTokyo,Japan. Forfurtherinformationabout the 28 1991 withtheinauguralforumheldin January Forum washeldinSingapore in August meeting oftheAsia-PacificParliamentary Asia-Pacific ParliamentaryForum: Thefirst can alsobeeffectiveactorsintheclimatechangeagenda. produced to inform Parliamentarians from small states on how they Parliamentarians from CPA Small Branches. The toolkit has been recently launchedanewtoolkitonclimatechangeforCommonwealth the CPA’s Small Branches and the CPA Headquarters Secretariat Russia; Chile;Mexico. Philippines; Vietnam;Thailand;China;Japan;Korea;Mongolia; Federated StatesofMicronesia;Cambodia;Indonesia;Laos; non-Commonwealth countriesalsoattendedtheAPPF28: Parliamentary Forum visit the lifeofproject.” to ensurethateffectivepublicfinancialoversightcontinuesbeyond to cementthelearningandgoodpracticethathasbeendeveloped to comeanendin2020,theLondonForumwasopportunity scrutiny functions.Withthelatestphaseofprojectscheduled working togethertostrengthentheirpublicfinancialoversightand Overseas Territorieshavedemonstratedastrongcommitmentto outcomes from the UK Overseas Territories Project. The UK Lord Foulkes, stated: NAO andGIAA;workshopsforParliamentariansofficials. Territories; multilateraltrainingforExternalAuditors;secondmentstothe legislatures and Crown Dependencies to PACs in the UK Overseas launch in2017hadincludedClerkattachmentsfromtheUKdevolved in 2020toensurelong-lastingimpact.Theproject’sactivitiessinceits the partners can continueto work together beyond theendof the project PACs, InternalandExternalAuditagenciesidentifywaysinwhich project todate,addresssomeoftheongoingchallengesfacedby Office (NAO)andtheGovernmentInternalAuditAgency(GIAA). delivered inpartnershipbytheCPAUKBranch,NationalAudit The issue of climate change in the region is particularly relevant to The issueofclimatechangeintheregionisparticularlyrelevantto The Chair of the UK Overseas Territories Project, Rt Hon. The LondonForumwasanopportunitytoexploreprogressonthe https://appf28.org/. “I have been delighted to see the positive th anniverary issue1920-2020 |23 CPA NEWS th Asia-Pacific Asia-Pacific

For more images of CPA activities and events please visit www.cpahq.org/cpahq/flickr. A century of publishing The Parliamentarian, the Journal of Commonwealth Parliaments, 1920-2020

The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) traces its origin to a world vastly different from today. When the CPA was founded in 1911 as the Empire Parliamentary Association, the world had scarcely two dozen nations which were parliamentary democracies. The British Empire was composed of one sovereign parliamentary democracy, five dominions, a handful of tiny protectorates and a vast array of colonies. Today, the United Nations has 193 member states, 54 of them in the Commonwealth. The CPA’s membership of 180 Branches also includes fourteen Overseas Territories, three Crown Dependencies and more than 125 sub-national states, provinces and territories in federal-style countries, all with their own Parliaments or Legislatures. Some of the states and provinces and their Legislatures are far larger and their economies more significant than many independent countries.

Between 1966 and 1984, The Parliamentarian was published as a book format. Regular features at the time included the architectural plans for new Parliament Buildings in Commonwealth jurisdictions.

The quarterly journal underwent a transition from a summary of debates in Commonwealth Parliaments to become a record of advances in democratic governance and a forum for the sharing of best practice. At the same time, the CPA would take on the professional development role, not just for new Parliamentarians in emerging Assemblies, but for all Parliamentarians throughout the Commonwealth. By helping Parliamentarians and parliamentary officials to enhance their knowledge of the many different In January 1920, the ‘Journal of Parliaments of the Empire’ was first published as the record of the debates ways in which their institution operates throughout the Commonwealth, to understand diverse perspectives on political issues and and activities of the Parliaments of the Association, published four times a year. to realize that they are not alone in the practice of their professions, the CPA has contributed to the improvement of governance throughout the Commonwealth. In 1966, the journal became The Parliamentarian as the established publication of the Association. The first meeting of the Association, held to mark the coronation of King George V in 1911, paved the way for future meetings of Parliamentarians and as it moved into the 1920s, a new political role emerged for the Association as a link to keeping a changing global empire together. The Association’s membership began to expand, taking in many different countries. Soon other Parliaments joined from Europe, Asia and the Caribbean, and Australia’s states and Canada’s provinces began joining the group to extend the Association into its next phase.

As the Association began to expand more widely, the CPA became, and continues to be, the natural arena for Parliamentarians and parliamentary officials to learn their profession from each other. CPA Conferences, which became annual from 1961 having previously been held every two years, added discussions on parliamentary and electoral processes to the usual agenda of political – especially foreign policy – issues. Seminars, such as the Westminster Seminar on Parliamentary Practice and Procedure which began in the early 1950s, meetings of Presiding Officers and Clerks and study groups on parliamentary subjects.

In January 1920, the ‘Journal of Parliaments of the Empire’ was first published as the record of the debates and activities of the Parliaments of the Association, published four times a year. In 1949, when the London declaration formed the ‘modern’ Commonwealth, the publication became the ‘Journal of the Parliaments of the Commonwealth’. In 1984, the magazine format for The Parliamentarian was first launched (Volume LXV: Issue 3). The first magazine design for The Parliamentarian ran from 1984 to 1998. The second magazine design for The Parliamentarian ran from 1999 to 2008. The third magazine design for The Parliamentarian ran from 2009 to 2019. In January 2020, the CPA marked the 100th anniversary issue of the first publishing of the journal in January 1920 (Volume 1 Issue One).

Over the years, supplements to The Parliamentarian have featured the host Branches for the Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference and the CPA Executive Committee Meetings, showcasing their Parliaments and political life. The Parliamentarian features regular columns by the CPA Chairperson, the CPA Small Branches Chairperson, the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians Chairperson and the CPA Secretary-General to highlight the work of the CPA and its networks.

Today, The Parliamentarian continues to be published for the benefit of the Association, reaching around 17,000 Parliamentarians and parliamentary staff in the CPA’s 180 Parliaments and Legislatures in both print and digital format. Subscribers also include academia interested in political science, research libraries and global organisations.

Text and images by Jeffrey Hyland, Editor, The Parliamentarian. The historic copies of CPA journals are held in the CPA archives at CPA Headquarters Secretariat. Please email [email protected] for further information or enquiries.

In 1949, when the London declaration formed the ‘modern’ Commonwealth, the publication became the ‘Journal of the Parliaments of the Digital copies of recent issues of The Parliamentarian can be accessed at the CPA website via the following links: Commonwealth’. In 1966, the journal became The Parliamentarian as the established publication of the Association. www.cpahq.org/cpahq/parliamentariancurrentissue | www.cpahq.org/cpahq/parliamentarianarchive | www.issuu.com/theparliamentarian

Relating very directly to the DELIVERING A COMMON FUTURE: CONNECTING, realisation of these aspirations are the Commonwealth Latimer House Principles on the Three INNOVATING, TRANSFORMING Branches of Government, which

set out the relationship that Image: Commonwealth Secretariat should pertain in democratic th The Commonwealth Secretary-General marks the 100 anniversary of this journal societies among the Executive, and looks ahead to the CHOGM 2020 in Rwanda. Parliament and the Judiciary. The principles emphasise the importance of the separation of powers in entrenching democracy and good governance. Each of these institutions must exercise power in its own constitutional sphere while maintaining mutual respect for the corresponding legitimacy of the others. Article I of the Commonwealth Latimer House Principles states that: Rt Hon. Patricia In serving the nations of the of collegiality among the Governments, political parties ‘Each Commonwealth Scotland, QC, Commonwealth, and carrying Parliaments and Legislatures and civil society are responsible country’s Parliaments, who took office as forward the responsibilities of our member countries. for upholding and promoting Executives and Judiciaries Secretary-General of entrusted to me by their Heads of Valuable bilateral exchanges and democratic culture and are the guarantors in Government, I have the pleasant international meetings of those practices and are accountable their respective spheres Heads of Government have Above: The President of Rwanda, His Excellency Paul Kagame joins the Commonwealth in if at times demanding duty of elected or appointed to represent to the public in this regard. of the rule of law, the lifted Commonwealth ambition the UK Prime Minister, Rt Hon. Boris Johnson, MP, current Chair- April 2016, serves the visiting member countries and our citizens, and of officials who Parliaments and representative promotion and protection of for its people and maintained in-Office of the Commonwealth and the Commonwealth Secretary- 54 governments and meeting people active in many serve Parliaments and Legislative local governments and other fundamental human rights its global relevance through the General, Rt Hon. Patricia Scotland at a special Commonwealth 2.4 billion people of areas of national and community Assemblies, are augmented forms of local governance and the entrenchment of good contributions of governments reception in the margins of the 74th United Nations General Assembly the Commonwealth. life, and of engaging with the by journals, periodicals and are essential elements in governance based on the and national institutions, the in New York to mark the hosting of CHOGM 2020 in Rwanda. Born in Dominica, she institutions that serve them. other publications which help to the exercise of democratic highest standards of honesty, Commonwealth Secretariat In doing so, I see at first hand disseminate news of progress governance.’ probity and accountability.’ and other intergovernmental moved to the UK at and close-up the truly remarkable and innovation. Such entrenchment or and associated organisations an early age. A lawyer depths of connection and the They also facilitate continuing incremental sedimentation is the – including the Commonwealth people, rather than simply of CHOGM 2020, the focus of our by profession, she closeness of goodwill, trust and professional development result of continual interaction and Parliamentary Association, governments. member countries is on delivering became the first black mutual support that flourish and expansion of knowledge, “As we celebrate the mutual encouragement among the and networks of civil society This very human and initiatives that are achievable, th and youngest woman among the 2.4 billion citizens of enhancement of procedures and 100 anniversary of national and regional institutions organisations, business and other organic characteristic of the comprehensive and meaningful, ever to be appointed the Commonwealth, and those practice, and improvements in the first publication of our member countries – made partners. Commonwealth adds immensely providing continuity as well as who represent and serve them at accountability and transparency up as they are of people who grow CHOGM 2020 will soon be to the depth and credibility to change. To do so we leverage Queen’s Counsel. She whatever level and in whatever so that our democratic in 1920 of the Journal and develop in understanding upon us, when in June the leaders our collective expressions of ‘Commonwealth Advantage’ – is the only woman capacity. institutions and the machinery of Commonwealth and capability through study and of our 54 member nations meet ambition and aspiration, and the distinctive product of our since the post was With such depth of of government answer to the exposure to developing ideas and in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, enables us continually to adapt members generally having such created in 1315 to be connection comes fruitful needs and expectations of Parliaments, and good practice. which became a member of the and evolve in response to similar systems of government, Attorney-General for cooperation: nations growing electorates. Such concerns align the continuing This occurs at multiple levels, Commonwealth family just over changing circumstances and democracy, law and regulation - England and Wales, together and encouraging closely with Commonwealth and Parliamentarians have a ten years ago in 2009. emerging needs. to consolidate achievements and one another towards higher priorities for continually raising contribution of the vital role in enabling it to filter Alongside the Heads of In Kigali, we will be ten years build together on so much that and also for Northern attainment, with firmer fulfilment levels of performance and Commonwealth down to local level among those Government Meeting itself, away from the target date for we share. Ireland. Appointed and closer adherence to the responsiveness. Parliamentary they represent, as they also and the associated meeting delivering the 2030 Agenda Under the CHOGM 2020 to the House of Lords values and principles of the Under the heading hold to account Ministers and of Foreign Ministers, there will for Sustainable Development. theme: ‘Delivering a Common as Baroness Scotland Commonwealth Charter. ‘Democracy’, Article I of the Association to the officials at the highest levels of be Commonwealth Forums for Ensuring peaceful, just and Future: Connecting, Innovating, of Asthal in 1997, she This edition of The Commonwealth Charter reads: life and vitality of government. The highest level at civil society, business, youth inclusive societies anchored in Transforming’, our leaders will has been Alderman Parliamentarian, marking the ‘We recognise the inalienable which interaction takes among and women. These will add strong institutions will create for example consider how the 100th anniversary of the first right of individuals to participate our global family of our member countries is at the greatly, as they always do, to a conducive environment Commonwealth can employ for Bishopsgate Ward publication of the Journal of in democratic processes, in nations, we can take biennial Commonwealth Heads of the vibrancy, dynamism and for attaining the Sustainable ICT and innovation as enablers in the City of London Commonwealth Parliaments, particular through free and pride in all that has Government Meeting, or CHOGM value of the gathering. They Development Goals. of inclusive growth. This means since 2015. reminds us of the long record fair elections in shaping the as it is more generally known. also enhance the reality of our So as we work on priorities boosting trade and creating of cooperation and sense society in which they live. be achieved.” At successive CHOGMs, being a Commonwealth of the and desired outcomes for higher levels of employment,

“There will also be particularly for young people, in and welfare of all people and Association to the life and vitality consideration of order to build greater resilience communities, particularly of our global family of nations, we The Maldives re-joins the Commonwealth into the economies of member those that are marginalised or can take pride in all that has be new environmental countries, together with social disadvantaged. So consideration achieved. initiatives to build and political progress in which all of how to combat injurious social Likewise, we can draw mutual are able to share. practices, to boost affordable encouragement for the future on the success of There will also be consideration healthcare and to provide quality as we challenge ourselves and the Commonwealth of new environmental initiatives education for all continue to one another to attain ever- to build on the success of the feature high on our agenda. higher levels of health, hope and Images: Commonwealth Secretariat Blue Charter ... Commonwealth Blue Charter Pressing ahead with practical happiness for all people of the Protecting aquatic launched at CHOGM 2018, action to achieve gender equality, Commonwealth, and for our world. life and water which was hosted by the United which is an indispensable and Speaking in 1952, the year Kingdom. Rwanda is a land-locked vital driver of social, economic in which at the age of only 25 resources together country, yet located within the and political progress, will be at she succeeded her much-loved with living lands, Great Lakes region of Africa, the forefront of our minds as we father King George VI as Head of and so a natural focus will be on assemble in Rwanda, which has the Commonwealth, Her Majesty forests and healthy combining both blue and green achieved the impressive levels of Queen Elizabeth II said of the urban environments issues. over 60% female membership in Commonwealth: “It is an entirely The Republic of The Maldives re-joined the Commonwealth on 1 Under the Constitution of the Commonwealth Parliamentary th calls for measures to Protecting aquatic life and its Lower House of Parliament, and new conception, built on the February 2020, becoming the 54 nation of the Commonwealth. Association (Article 3:1), the Parliament of the Maldives (People’s water resources together with almost 40% in the Upper House. highest qualities of the spirit of The small island nation rejoined the Commonwealth following Majlis) is eligible to rejoin the CPA’s Association of over 180 combat the impact living lands, forests and healthy This demonstrates the man: friendship, loyalty and the a process of over a year that began in December 2018 when Commonwealth Parliaments and Legislatures. The small island of anthropogenic urban environments calls for important role our Parliaments desire for freedom and peace.” President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih wrote to the Commonwealth nation would also become a member of the CPA Small Branches measures to combat the impact and Parliamentarians have in In pursuit of that desire for Secretary-General, Rt Hon. Patricia Scotland, QC expressing the network which represents jurisdictions with populations of up climate change, to of anthropogenic climate change, driving forward progress, and freedom, many nations have country’s interest in re-joining. to 500,000 people and addresses the needs of the smallest eliminate plastic to eliminate plastic pollution and in setting ambitious goals for during the course of the past Following a country assessment and consultations in accordance Legislatures in the Commonwealth. The Speaker of the People’s tackle desertification through attainment nationally, regionally century grown to maturity and with the rules and procedures agreed by the Commonwealth Majlis is Hon. Mohamed Nasheed. pollution and tackle sustainable use of resources and and for the Commonwealth independence, taking their Heads of Government in Kampala in 2007, the Maldives has now Following the announcement, a special flag raising ceremony for The desertification regenerative development. collectively. rightful place as full members of been re-admitted into the organisation. The assessment included Maldives was held at the Commonwealth Secretariat’s headquarters, through sustainable Together with such wide- As we celebrate the 100th the Commonwealth family. Yet positive feedback given by a Commonwealth Election Observer Marlborough House, attended by the Foreign Minister of The Maldives, ranging and vital concerns for the anniversary of the first publication our sense of interdependence, Group for the Parliamentary Elections in April 2019. The Maldives Hon. Abdulla Shahid; the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Rt Hon. use of resources well-being of our planet, which in 1920 of the Journal of of growing together and building also presented evidence of functioning democratic processes as Patricia Scotland, QC; and Dr Farah Faizal, the High Commissioner and regenerative affects each and every one of Commonwealth Parliaments, and peace has also developed, well as popular support for re-joining. of The Maldives to the UK along with High Commissioners and us, there are our Commonwealth the continuing contribution of the drawing on deep wellsprings of The Commonwealth Secretary-General said: “I warmly congratulate representatives from all Commonwealth countries. development.” priorities relating to the dignity Commonwealth Parliamentary kinship, friendship and affinity – Maldives on its successful application. We are delighted to welcome the The Maldives Foreign Minister, Hon. Abdulla Shahid and the loyalty to one another as well as country and its people back to the Commonwealth. The reform process Majority Leader in the Maldives Parliament, Hon. Ali Azim, MP to high ideals. underway in Maldives aligns with the values and principles of the met in London with the Acting CPA Secretary-General, Mr Jarvis These are the attributes which Commonwealth and we encourage the nation to continue on this path. Matiya to discuss the proposed return of the Parliament of the enable the Commonwealth Commonwealth members were pleased to note these developments Maldives (People’s Majlis) to the Commonwealth Parliamentary to shine as a beacon for and are happy once again to count Maldives as a member of the family. Association. The Acting CPA Secretary-General said: “The multilateralism. Its guiding beams Together we will support Maldives to realise its ambitions.” Commonwealth Parliamentary Association welcomes the

Image: Commonwealth Secretariat continue to refract through The President of the Republic of the Maldives, His Excellency Maldives back into the Commonwealth family and the CPA the discourses and debates of Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, said: “Today is a happy day for Maldivians looks forward to the Parliament of the Maldives (People’s Majlis) Parliaments and Parliamentarians, as we return to the family of Commonwealth nations. As a rejoining the CPA soon.” casting a rich kaleidoscope of young democracy, the Commonwealth’s foundational values of light on the patterns of life in our the promotion of democracy, human rights, good governance, member nations. multilateralism and world peace remain relevant to us more than One hundred years on from ever. We gratefully acknowledge the support and help of the the founding edition of this Commonwealth to the Maldivian democratic movement, and we publication, motivated by a look forward to the support of fellow member states to ensure the

sense of community in diversity long-term entrenchment of these values in our society.” Image: CPA Headquarters Secretariat and cooperating on the basis of The Maldives will now take part in the forthcoming equality and self-determination, Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in the member nations of the Kigali, Rwanda from 22 to 28 June 2020 and its Ambassador Commonwealth work towards to the UK now becomes its High Commissioner, signifying its delivering a common future that Commonwealth membership. is fairer, more prosperous, more The Maldives joined the Commonwealth in 1982, and withdrew sustainable and more secure. its membership in 2016.

28 | The Parliamentarian | 2020: Issue One | 100th anniversary issue 1920-2020 The Parliamentarian | 2020: Issue One | 100th anniverary issue 1920-2020 | 29 BUILDING COMMONWEALTH LINKS BUILDING COMMONWEALTH LINKS IN THE POST-BREXIT WORLD: A IN THE POST-BREXIT WORLD: A VIEW FROM GIBRALTAR VIEW FROM GIBRALTAR

BUILDING COMMONWEALTH LINKS IN THE POST-

BREXIT WORLD: A VIEW FROM GIBRALTAR Image: Government of Gibraltar

The Deputy Chief Minister of Gibraltar looks at future links being built in the Commonwealth.

The Government of Gibraltar cultural identity. We have lived to the UK of Australia, Canada, supports the work of the on this Rock for more than three New Zealand and India have all Commonwealth Parliamentary hundred years. We are a British come to Gibraltar since the 2016 Association (CPA) and our Overseas Territory, a modern referendum. They want to learn Parliamentarians, both from nation in our own right. about our ambitions and listen to the Government and from the We are one of many in this our concerns. For Gibraltar has Opposition benches, are active modern, forward-looking family of long played an active part in the participants in CPA events. countries and territories brought organisations and institutions of We fly the Gibraltar flag. We together by shared experiences, by the Commonwealth. represent our Parliament and our language, by culture, by traditions My colleague, the Minister Hon. Dr Joseph country. And we do so with pride. and by way of life. And we have a for Justice, Multiculturalism, Garcia, MP is the Because in the CPA, the small clear willingness to use this to our Equality and Community Affairs, Deputy Chief Minister countries are equal to large ones. advantage as we carve out our Hon. Samantha Sacramento, This article will look at the own destiny. Our own place in the MP is on the British Islands of Gibraltar and its relationship that Gibraltar enjoys world. Because it is, indeed, those and Mediterranean Regional Minister for European with the Commonwealth. In doing values that define us. Steering Committee of the Affairs. In a re-shuffle so, I will dwell on the past and That is as true for individuals Commonwealth Women of our Postal Services was also deployed last year to The Gambia Above: The Deputy Chief Minister of Gibraltar, Hon. Dr Joseph Garcia, that followed the also look forward to the future. as it is for governments, Parliamentarians (CWP). the Chairman of the Conference where they provided training in his capacity as Minister with responsibility for relations with the At the time of publication of institutions and the people Hon. Steven Linares, MP, the of Commonwealth Postal and mentoring for the Gambian Commonwealth, speaks to students at a CPA Roadshow for young UK Referendum on this Journal, Gibraltar will have that we have the privilege to Minister for Housing, Youth and Administrations. forces’ UN deployment to the people in Gibraltar. EU membership, he left the European Union. The EU represent. And those values Sport is an alternate on the Board We have participated in Darfur region of Sudan. was also appointed flag will be lowered and replaced are, inevitably, shaped by our of the Commonwealth Local every Commonwealth Games All of these are Commonwealth are available to many young status of Participating Guest or Minister for work by the flag of the Commonwealth. experiences of the past and our Government Forum (CLFG). since the first one in 1958. countries. All these are people in Gibraltar. through some new kind of Affiliate That simple act carries a serious hopes for the future. The Minister for Economic Indeed, Gibraltar bid to host the Commonwealth connections. In 2018, Gibraltar or Associate Membership. The relating to the political message. We Gibraltarians are well Development, Hon. Sir Joe Commonwealth Youth Games And Gibraltar was proud to was represented at the next Commonwealth Heads of United Kingdom’s Clearly, ‘Brexit’ will serve to known for our resilience, for our Bossano, MP is actively here in 2021. The games were have made a small effort to assist Commonwealth People’s Government Meeting takes place departure from the frame this discussion and will entrepreneurial ability, for our involved in the Commonwealth awarded to Trinidad and Tobago. those Caribbean Commonwealth Forum, the Commonwealth in Rwanda in June 2020. European Union, obviously colour the context courage, for our determination, Telecommunications Organisation. We will try again in the future. territories affected by the hurricanes Women’s Forum, the It is true that different of what I have to say. In 2019, for our ability to turn any Indeed, until recently the CEO Gibraltar joined the in 2017 with aid, with supplies Commonwealth Business Commonwealth organisations known as Brexit. He we marked 70 years of the potentially bleak situation into Commonwealth Enterprise and and with vehicles. These were Forum and the Commonwealth have different structures. In was first elected to foundation of the Commonwealth a new opportunity for growth, “The Commonwealth Investment Council in 2017. specifically Anguilla, the British Youth Forum which all took some, Gibraltar is a full member the Parliament of in 1949. Gibraltar is proud of our development and trade. That is This is the trading and business Virgin Islands, the Turks and Caicos place in the margins of the equal to everyone else. In others, is, indeed, a consensus- Gibraltar in 1999 and long and historic relationship with what our history has shown. arm of the Commonwealth. The Islands and Dominica. Again, this last Commonwealth Heads of the statutes have been amended its institutions and organisations. As we begin to look outside based international Council has agreed to open an demonstrates the importance of Government Meeting (CHOGM) to accommodate British he became the Deputy The Gibraltar of today, a of the Continent, we want to office here in Gibraltar. This will being part of the family. that took place in London, UK. Overseas Territories. Chief Minister in 2011. modern, cosmopolitan city and continue to do business with organisation. The lack happen shortly. That will open the Also, in 2017, we were We are not a member state. We Following proposals from vibrant trade hub, is deeply those who share our core values of a rigid institutional door to new commercial contacts delighted to send young people are the Overseas Territory of a Hon. Sir Joe Bossano, MP, for th rooted in our rich history. I make of fairness, openness and structure, however, with the countries and territories to the 9 Commonwealth Youth member state. example, the Commonwealth no apologies as a historian. Our transparency. of the Commonwealth. Parliament (organised by the The view of the Government Telecommunications history has made us who we are Our main market today is the could be one of its Elsewhere, the Royal Gibraltar CPA) in Jersey for the first time. of Gibraltar is that provision Organisation, created a new today: a culturally, ethnically and United Kingdom. That has been greatest strengths. Regiment has deployed soldiers Indeed, at the end of last year, should be made for Gibraltar, and category of Affiliate Membership. religiously diverse People who guaranteed post-Brexit. And we to Kenya, Cyprus and Sierra two more young Gibraltarians those Overseas Territories who When I last met the are proud to call themselves will now also logically look to our The Commonwealth Leone over the years. They participated in the 10th wish it, to be represented at the Commonwealth Secretary-General Gibraltarian. friends in Commonwealth family. cannot, and should not, also served on a month-long Commonwealth Youth Parliament actual Commonwealth Heads in London, we discussed finding a Like many of our friends It is good to see that they look to attempt to replicate deployment to Canada as part of that was held in Delhi, India. They of Government Meetings in the place for the Overseas Territories across the Commonwealth, us also. a large multi-national exercise. were selected through an essay future. This could be achieved in the Commonwealth structure. Gibraltarians boast a unique The High Commissioners the European Union.” Members of the Regiment were competition. These opportunities through the creation of a new Some years ago, we initiated

30 | The Parliamentarian | 2020: Issue One | 100th anniversary issue 1920-2020 The Parliamentarian | 2020: Issue One | 100th anniverary issue 1920-2020 | 31 BUILDING COMMONWEALTH LINKS IN THE POST-BREXIT WORLD: A VIEW FROM GIBRALTAR CPA NEWS a policy of taking young people civilians who were evacuated there of their own. Yet our links with economic sanctions. from Gibraltar schools to visit after the outbreak of the Second the Commonwealth, in better or It has even led to the Young people encouraged to play a positive role in democracy as Commonwealth the EU institutions in Brussels. World War. worse times, have survived. The suspension of certain member Parliamentary Association brings CPA Roadshows to Gibraltar Last year, for the first time, we In the 1960s, Australia networks that we have managed states. I point also to the excellent changed the focus and the group passionately defended the to develop between us have not work of the Commonwealth The CPA has held two CPA went to London instead to visit the right to self-determination of only endured. They have thrived. Parliamentary Association. Roadshows in Gibraltar aimed at UK institutions and those of the the people of Gibraltar at the Some might refer to this as soft The positive discussions at introducing young people to the Commonwealth. This included the United Nations in New York. power networking. Commonwealth Heads of work of the CPA, the importance Commonwealth Secretariat, the And when the United Nations I consider it to be something Government Meetings, and the of the Commonwealth family Commonwealth Enterprise and refused to send observers to the more. A deeper relationship intricate webs of networks that and the CPA’s vital role in the Investment Council and indeed referendum that was held here in that embeds centuries of exist at Ministerial and diplomatic democratic process. our friends in the Commonwealth 1967, it was the Commonwealth shared experience, decades of level. I point to the vibrancy of The CPA Roadshows were Parliamentary Association. I want that agreed to do so instead. cultural understanding, years of these relationships, and the held for Year 12 and 13 students to thank the CPA for hosting That team of Commonwealth projecting the same values, the dynamic nature of the work that (17-19-year olds) at Bayside and our students. There will be an observers was headed by New development of a strong sporting we are able to do together. And I Westside schools and students opportunity for more students to Zealand’s then Ambassador tradition, the sharing of expertise, do not suggest for a minute that from the College of Further participate in another such visit to France. The Observers and the formation of economic all this is set in stone. Education in Gibraltar. The two later this year. included Kenya’s Ambassador partnerships. We can, and should, develop presentations were delivered 2020 will bring challenges of to West Germany and Jamaica’s The Commonwealth is, those networks further still. by the Acting CPA Secretary- course, as we leave the European Assistant Attorney General. indeed, a consensus-based The Government of Gibraltar is General, Mr Jarvis Matiya, and Union. Whilst these challenges Another example of what it international organisation. immensely proud of our young by the Deputy Chief Minister of may be new, the sense of a means to be a part of the family. The lack of a rigid institutional delegates to the Commonwealth Gibraltar, Hon. Dr Joseph Garcia, collective responsibility in turbulent The irony cannot be lost upon structure, however, could be one Youth Parliaments and the in his capacity as Minister with times, and of collaboration to us that only a few years later the of its greatest strengths. The Commonwealth Youth Forums. responsibility for relations with create mutual prosperity is not new UK stood accused of turning its Commonwealth cannot, and It is vital that our young people the Commonwealth. to any of us. For decades, we have back on the Commonwealth. This should not, attempt to replicate have a voice and a clear role The Acting Secretary-General been there for the Commonwealth came in 1973 when both the UK the European Union. in shaping the future of our spoke about the importance family and the Commonwealth and Gibraltar joined the European There are some who are relationships. After all, 60% of of the Commonwealth in family has been there for us. Economic Community. It was to critical of the Commonwealth’s Commonwealth citizens are democracy across the world and the role that young people Gibraltar’s membership of Commonwealth organisations like the In 1915, during World War One, be a dramatic turning point in the lack of a formal structure under the age of 30. We want can play in engaging in the democratic institutions in their own CPA is now more important than ever. Gibraltar provided a safe haven for relationship with the ‘old’ Empire. and question the absence of to know what you think. We jurisdictions. He also spoke about the Commonwealth fostering Since they were launched in March 2016, there have been injured servicemen from Australia But the world has moved on powers of enforcement. I do want your help in shaping new a sense of community among its 54 member countries and the more than 60 CPA Roadshows which have reached over and New Zealand who arrived here since then. The Commonwealth the opposite. I point precisely opportunities. New opportunities 2.4 billion people who live in them as well as the shared values 11,000 young people in seven of the nine CPA Regions. Within on hospital ships from the conflict too. Its member countries have to the Commonwealth’s history for Gibraltar in a new order. of democracy, development and diversity, and the CPA’s role in these Regions, CPA Roadshows have been held in educational in Gallipoli. In 1940, Jamaica since entered into strategic of enforcement. This has With new technologies that promoting these values. institutions in places such as Bangladesh, Montserrat, Guyana, hosted two thousand Gibraltarian alliances or trade agreements sometimes given effect to agreed reduce distance and make time The Deputy Chief Minister drew attention to the fact that, in just Pakistan, Jersey, Mauritius, Queensland (Australia), Guernsey, irrelevant. Many of our young over three weeks’ time, EU flags will be lowered across Gibraltar, UK, New Zealand, Tonga, Northern Ireland, Bermuda, Zambia, people, in the years to come, with Commonwealth flags raised in their stead - meaning Isle of Man, Scotland, Malaysia, Singapore, Northern Territory will have jobs and contribute to (Australia), Turks and Caicos, Cayman Islands, Trinidad and our economies and societies Left: During his visit Tobago, Belize, Canada, St Helena, Cameroon, Mauritius, Nevis in ways that we cannot even to the CPA Gibraltar and Jamaica. imagine today. ‘Brexit’ is the spur Branch, the Acting CPA The Commonwealth has a youthful population with more than to enhance our Commonwealth Secretary-General, 60% under the age of 30. This is the reason behind the CPA connections. To develop, Mr Jarvis Matiya held initiative to strengthen its outreach to the Commonwealth’s young strengthen and mould them discussions with the people. to our mutual advantage. The Deputy Chief Minister The CPA Roadshows for schools and universities provide an opportunities that the future will of Gibraltar, Hon. Dr opportunity for young people to learn about the political values bring are for our young people to Joseph Garcia, in his of the Commonwealth such as diversity, development and shape. Because that future is yet capacity as Minister parliamentary democracy; to discuss issues of concern about the to be written. with responsibility society in which they live; and to find out about the work of the for relations with the CPA through their questions at the sessions. This article is based on a speech Commonwealth, In addition to the CPA Roadshows for young people, the given to Year 12 and 13 students of on CPA activities CPA Acting Secretary-General also met with Hon. Samantha Bayside School, Westside School and parliamentary Sacramento, MP, Gibraltar Minister for Justice and Equality, and The Parliament of Gibraltar. and the College of Further Education strengthening Hon. Edwin Joseph Reyes, MP to discuss the CPA Gibraltar as part of a CPA Roadshow event programmes for the Branch’s activities and further collaboration with the CPA for young people in Gibraltar, Gibraltar Legislature. Headquarters Secretariat. Wednesday 8 January 2020.

32 | The Parliamentarian | 2020: Issue One | 100th anniversary issue 1920-2020 The Parliamentarian | 2020: Issue One | 100th anniverary issue 1920-2020 | 33 ELECTION REFORMS: VOTES FOR 16 ELECTION REFORMS: VOTES FOR 16 YEAR OLDS AND INSTITUTIONAL YEAR OLDS AND INSTITUTIONAL CHANGES FOR THE WELSH ASSEMBLY CHANGES FOR THE WELSH ASSEMBLY

ELECTION REFORMS: VOTES FOR 16 YEAR OLDS AND INSTITUTIONAL CHANGES FOR THE WELSH ASSEMBLY

A historic Act in the Welsh Assembly brings institutional changes.

Elin Jones, AM is 2019 marked a memorable masterful leadership of Professor Llywydd (Presiding twelve months for the National Laura McAllister of Cardiff Officer) of the Assembly for Wales. University to advise and report National Assembly As our national legislature, to the Assembly Commission the Senedd, entered its 21st on matters relating to electoral for Wales since May year, a programme of events reform. These included the 2016 and has been was rolled out to reflect on two number of Members that the a Member of Welsh decades of Welsh devolution with Assembly needs, the most Assembly since its a pioneering Citizens’ Assembly, suitable electoral system, and creation in 1999. As a festival of politics - GWLAD the minimum voting age for Presiding Officer, (‘country’ in Welsh), and the Assembly elections. That is why the Assembly decide on their own areas of Above: The Senedd, situated in Cardiff Bay, Wales was opened in passing of legislation introducing The Panel reported its “The Senedd itself Commission and Welsh focus which include Littering 2006 and sits alongside the historic Pierhead building - part of the she chairs the votes at age 16 and changing findings in December 2017, has already played Government are working and Plastic Waste, Life Skills in larger Assembly estate - which also includes a visitor information Business Committee the institution’s name to Senedd recommending lowering the its part in bringing closely together to create an the Curriculum, and Emotional centre. The building has three floors, houses the Siambr (Debating and the Assembly Cymru or Welsh Parliament. voting age to 16 thus providing education and awareness raising and Mental Health Support. The Chamber), as well as many other rooms supporting the legislative Commission, as well The Senedd and Elections Act the impetus for pressing ahead democracy closer campaign to encourage 16- Youth Parliament is testament and democratic processes in Wales. Transparent at the public level, as keeping order in which introduced these changes with the Senedd and Elections to Wales’s younger and 17-year olds to vote. The to the belief that given the the debates take place below within the slate plinth. The Senedd was Plenary meetings. was significant in many senses. Bill. A consultation carried out campaign includes a wide range opportunity, young people designed to be as open and accessible as possible. Firstly, the new law is the by the Expert Panel showed that generation. The of engagement tools such as will play an active role in their Internationally, biggest change to the electoral 59% of respondents supported Welsh Youth advertising, written material, and democracy and pursue issues evolved as a distinct political existed as a corporate body, with she represents the franchise in Wales since the extending the franchise to 16- face to face promotion in schools which are close to their hearts entity. the Executive and Legislature Assembly at meetings voting age was reduced from age and 17-year olds. Parliament – the and other institutions. with agency and eloquence. The home of Welsh operating as one. of the Conference 21 to 18 in 1969. This important change will see first of its kind in the The Senedd itself has already I am hopeful that extending democracy is a very different The appetite for a name of European Secondly, unlike most around 70,000 young people world – is made up played its part in bringing the franchise in Wales will place to where it was at the birth change was also reflected in Regional Legislative legislation considered by the in Wales join their counterparts democracy closer to Wales’s inspire a generation to demand of devolution in 1999. During responses to a consultation Senedd, it was not introduced in Scotland, Malta, Austria and of 60 young people younger generation. The Welsh a louder voice in the democratic the legislative journey of the held by the Assembly between Assemblies (CALRE) by the Welsh Government but elsewhere in being able to vote at aged 11-18 from Youth Parliament – the first of processes that will influence their Senedd and Elections Bill, there December 2016 and March and is CPA Wales rather by me as the Llywydd 16 years old. its kind in the world – is made futures more than anyone’s. was a broad consensus that 2017 with 61% of respondents Branch President. (Presiding Officer) on behalf of The first opportunity to do all parts of Wales, up of 60 young people aged Another major aspect of the name ‘National Assembly agreeing or strongly agreeing Before being elected the Assembly Commission. so in Wales will be the Senedd some representing 11-18 from all parts of Wales, the Senedd and Elections Bill for Wales’ should change, in that the Assembly should change to the Assembly, Thanks to the 2017 Wales Elections in May 2021. minority and some representing minority and was the proposal to rename order to reflect the Assembly’s its name. Elin served as an Act, the constitutional reforms Of course, such a step-change marginalised groups such as the Assembly as Senedd new constitutional status as a The Bill – now an Act of proposed in the Bill became will not realise its full potential in marginalised groups young carers and members of Cymru or Welsh Parliament. Legislature with full law-making course – renames the National Aberystwyth town part of the Senedd’s legislative giving young people in Wales a such as young carers the BME community. As someone who has served in and partial tax-raising powers. Assembly for Wales as ‘Senedd Councillor and was the competence in that year. voice in their democratic process The autonomy granted to the the Senedd since its creation, I Before 2011, the Assembly Cymru’ or ‘Welsh Parliament’. town’s youngest ever In the same year, I tasked without an accompanying and members of the Members of the Welsh Youth have witnessed the substantial had only partial law-making Assembly Members will be known Mayor in 1997-98. an Expert Panel under the programme of engagement. BME community.” Parliament has seen them changes brought about as Wales powers, and before 2006 it as ‘Aelodau o’r Senedd’ (AS) or

34 | The Parliamentarian | 2020: Issue One | 100th anniversary issue 1920-2020 The Parliamentarian | 2020: Issue One | 100th anniverary issue 1920-2020 | 35 ELECTION REFORMS: VOTES FOR 16 ELECTION REFORMS: VOTES FOR 16 YEAR OLDS AND INSTITUTIONAL YEAR OLDS AND INSTITUTIONAL CHANGES FOR THE WELSH ASSEMBLY CHANGES FOR THE WELSH ASSEMBLY

‘Members of the Senedd’ (MS). supermajority of Members in The name change will take legal The Senedd’s Siambr (Debating Chamber) favour. Royal Assent was granted effect in May 2020 to ensure that in mid-January making the Bill the public are familiar with the officially an Act. new name in advance of the next However, this is not the end Assembly election in 2021. of road for electoral reform in Opinions varied on what the Senedd, of course. My initial Image courtesy of the Welsh Assembly. the new name of the Assembly hope was that there would should be, and the Bill was also be a second Assembly markedly different upon Commission Bill to make introduction in that the proposed provision for increasing the name was ‘Senedd’ with ‘Welsh size of the Assembly and make Parliament’ as a descriptor. consequential reforms to the However, arguments were electoral system, guided by the put forward that a territorial remaining recommendations of connection should be reflected the Expert Panel. in the name in both English and The political consensus Welsh, and so the legislation required to press ahead with evolved to state that ‘Senedd such a Bill is yet to emerge, but Cymru’ or ‘Welsh Parliament’ I am confident that the new would be the official name. Senedd Committee established Nevertheless, the law will last September to examine the still require the name ‘Senedd’ Expert Panel’s recommendations looking forward to following Above: The Llywydd (Presiding Officer) of the Senedd, Elin Jones, to be used in various titles, such Despite the name and in 1999 certain persons have Legislature before they could in more detail will provide this debate and to hearing new AM together with the First Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford, AM and as Members of the Senedd, franchise changes being the been disqualified from being take the oath, or make the momentum for the public debate and innovative ideas – such as the Clerk of the Senedd, Manon Antoniazzi following Royal Assent of Clerk of the Senedd, the Senedd most talked-about aspects of the an Assembly Member, on the affirmation of allegiance. surrounding the future of the those on display at the Senedd the Senedd and Elections Act. Commission, the Senedd Senedd and Elections Act, they basis of their jobs. Historically, The Act also disqualifies Senedd whilst helping inform in 2019 – that will help create a Commissioner for Standards and are not exhaustive in reflecting its people have been disqualified Members of the House of decision-makers. more inclusive, accessible and the Independent Remuneration entire scope which also includes from being Assembly Members Lords from being Members of I hope others, like me, are effective Parliament for Wales. Board of the Senedd. other interesting and important at the point that they would the Senedd. From 2021, any This is an important step reforms. be nominated as a candidate. Members of the House of Lords in normalising the use of the As I have previously stated, This meant that people had to who are elected to the Assembly The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) produces a number of guides and Welsh language in public life, the Bill evolved considerably resign from jobs in order to be will now be required to apply toolkits for Commonwealth Parliamentarians and Parliamentary staff including the CPA and I have been encouraged to as it made its passage through nominated as a candidate. for leave for absence from the see prominent media figures the Assembly. Amendments The Act creates two points at House of Lords before they are Recommended Benchmarks for Democratic Legislatures; the Recommended Benchmarks and news outlets already using introduced by Jeremy Miles, which different disqualifications allowed to serve in the Senedd. for Codes of Conduct for Members of Parliament and the Handbook on Constituency ‘Senedd’ in their broadcasts and AM, the Counsel General for the will take effect. Some Members of Legislatures from publications. Welsh Government, extended disqualifying offices (for example, outside the UK are disqualified Development Funds (CDFs): Principles and Tools for Parliamentarians. the franchise further to include the position of the Auditor- from standing for election. qualifying foreign citizens. General for Wales) still have The Bill also makes “Despite the name The Act defines a qualifying effect at the point a person would the Electoral Commission foreign citizen as someone who be nominated as a candidate. accountable to the Assembly for and franchise is not an Irish, Commonwealth These are offices where there the work that it does in relation changes being or EU citizen (on the basis is a conflict of interest with even to devolved Welsh elections the most talked- that such persons are already being a candidate for election. and referendums; extends the enfranchised) and who is a However, other disqualifying deadline for the first meeting of about aspects of person who either does not need offices only have effect at the the Assembly after an election; the Senedd and the permission of the immigration point that a Member returned and clarifies the Assembly authorities to enter and remain in in an Assembly election Commission’s powers to charge Elections Act, they the United Kingdom (commonly takes the oath or makes the for goods and services. are not exhaustive referred to as “leave to enter affirmation of allegiance. For Co-operation with the or remain”) or who does need example, Members of the Welsh Government was key in in reflecting its such permission and it has been Scottish Parliament, Northern delivering a piece of legislation entire scope which granted. Ireland Assembly and European of constitutional significance and Please contact [email protected] to request a copy or visit also includes other The Act also changes the Parliament would be allowed I am grateful for all constructive rules on who can stand for to stand for election to the dialogue and deliberations. The www.cpahq.org/cpahq/resources to download an e-version. interesting and election to the Assembly. Since Assembly. However, they would Bill was passed on 27 November important reforms.“ the Assembly was established have to resign from the other 2019, securing the required

36 | The Parliamentarian | 2020: Issue One | 100th anniversary issue 1920-2020 The Parliamentarian | 2020: Issue One | 100th anniverary issue 1920-2020 | 37 HOW PARLIAMENTARIANS CAN HOW PARLIAMENTARIANS CAN ENGAGE THE PUBLIC THROUGH ENGAGE THE PUBLIC THROUGH PETITION SYSTEM REFORMS PETITION SYSTEM REFORMS

HOW PARLIAMENTARIANS CAN ENGAGE THE PUBLIC THROUGH PETITION SYSTEM REFORMS

Many Commonwealth Parliaments around the world are introducing reforms designed to re-engage with their communities and one key reform is the modernisation of parliamentary petition systems.

Australia, as with many developed Members of Parliament play nations, is facing a widespread an essential role in promoting loss of public confidence and trust these revamped systems and in its political institutions. With the persuading their communities 2019 Australian Election Study that their activism can bring “Many Parliaments reporting ongoing falls in public meaningful change. While not satisfaction with democracy and all Parliamentarians have the around the world Above: The Parliament of frustration, Members of the able to provide assistance. Wales Government Ministers trust in government, it is clear capacity to facilitate the petition are introducing New South Wales in Sydney, New South Wales Legislative Trust in political institutions and Parliamentary Secretaries that, as stated in a recent journal process, Members who wish to Australia. Assembly helped guide may also be gained through have attended petition debates article, “citizens are judging their be involved must appreciate that reforms designed petitioners to submit their Member involvement in the to respond to petitioners’ Chris Angus is politics not through the lens of the skills and support they can to re-engage with petitions. Importantly, Members petitions systems. A number of concerns. While Ministers did a Research Officer complacency but more through offer petitioners - time, effort, their communities. attempted to manage petitioners’ New South Wales Members took not always change their policy the lens of righteous indignation.” 1 resources, experience - can play meeting constituents to discuss expectations about what their on petition causes as their own, positions, they nevertheless held at the New South These attitudes have as important a role as the petition One key reform is petition issues, and raising petitions could - or could not - attending public meetings or themselves publicly accountable Wales Parliamentary profoundly negative system itself. the modernisation community and media awareness accomplish. While this may not rallies to advocate for the issue, for their decisions, outlining the Research Service at consequences for the democratic My 2018 journal article, of petition issues. prevent disappointment should while others met directly with reasoning behind a policy and of parliamentary the Parliament of system – without an engaged Parliamentarians’ Actions To newcomers, the petition a petition be unsuccessful, it constituents to discuss matters. acknowledging public concerns. and active civic culture, our future within Petition Systems: Their petition systems. process may seem bewildering. may persuade petitioners that Although not required under the New South Wales, challenges will be much harder to Impact on Public Perceptions of 52, no. 2 (2017): 218-235. To minimise confusion and Parliamentarians are willing and sessional orders, New South Australia. overcome. Fairness, outlined the positive A number of Many Parliaments around the actions taken by New South Parliaments - These positive actions are supported by Hon. John Ajaka, MLC, President of the New world are introducing reforms Wales Legislative Assembly including the designed to re-engage with Members when they worked South Wales Legislative Council and CPA Vice-Chairperson: their communities. One key with petitioners. While many of Parliament of New reform is the modernisation of these actions may be considered South Wales - are “Complacent young citizens or cross-generational solidarity? An “Many Australians are disillusioned with the political process, and the challenge for parliamentary petition systems. ‘common sense’, in this time us as Presiding Officers is how to respond. Although Parliaments are in a unique

updating their Australian Journal of Political Science position to respond to this disengagement, institutional reforms are only part of the A number of Parliaments of declining political trust, , - including the Parliament these behaviours may facilitate petition systems picture. Parliamentarians must also take a lead in supporting community members who wish to be involved in the political process, whether it be submitting a petition, of New South Wales - are re-engaging the community to give petitioners updating their petition systems with politicians and political requesting help or simply expressing their views on an important issue. to give petitioners meaningful institutions. meaningful There is much work to be done to rebuild public confidence and trust in political opportunities to present their It is important that opportunities concerns to their elected petitioners feel supported institutions. Fortunately, research suggests that Australians still believe in liberal representatives. by Parliamentarians who to present their democracy, with many waiting on ‘standby’ to re-engage with politics. Modernising However, we cannot simply advocate their causes. Members political systems is an important means of re-engaging, yet the community also

concerns to Gerry Stoker, Jinjing Li, Max Halupka, Mark Evans, modernise petition systems demonstrated this in a variety of 1 wants to see positive change from politicians as well. The challenge for politicians and expect the public to regain ways, including public recognition their elected is to demonstrate through their behaviours that this change is occurring.” confidence in political institutions. during parliamentary debates, analysis of Australian attitudes to democratic politics” representatives.“ References:

work with civil society can make organisations, multinational PROMOTING GLOBAL EQUALITY IN THE COMMONWEALTH all the difference, as it is too often companies, and international the case that diligent activists lack organisations to support the resources they need to push equality campaigns and to A group of Parliamentarians are seeking to promote global equality for LGBT+ citizens. for reform. provide a co-ordinated political Image: Global Equality Caucus. Linking politicians with experts voice where previously there in civil society is an important was none. We also link up part of affecting change, as it networks of politicians and is the grassroots organisations civil society actors who wish to and community leaders who work on national campaigns The Commonwealth Charter gender identity. A Civil Unions Bill dignity of LGBT+ people, have a first-hand knowledge of or across borders, and so far unites our community of nations was passed by the Parliament in especially in instances where the issues that LGBT+ people our membership has grown to under the shared values of Cyprus, and same-sex marriage violence and discrimination experience. This is something we over 100 members across 30 peace, democracy, human rights, has been legalised in the United have been sanctioned by the have done in the UK Parliament, countries and 6 continents. tolerance, respect and freedom of Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand state. Parliamentarians have a where in 2015 the All-Party Launching at the United expression. No matter what our and Malta. Malta has also key role to play in this respect. Parliamentary Group on Global Nations Headquarters differences are, it is these values outlawed damaging conversion Legislators are uniquely placed LGBT+ Rights, which I co-chaired during World Pride, founding Above: Parliamentarians at the launch of the Global Equality Caucus to that drive our multilateral work therapy, introduced protections to hold governments to account, until last year, was set up to members of the Global tackle LGBT+ discrimination in New York in June 2019. towards securing safer, freer, and for intersex people, made it easier provide a voice to the concerns provide a forum for civil society Equality Caucus signed more prosperous futures for all for transgender people to self- of the people they represent, groups to inform the work of the New York Declaration Rt Hon. Nick Commonwealth citizens. identify, and improved adoption influence the national debate, Parliamentarians supportive of to affirm our commitment These values matter as much and IVF rights for same-sex and enact the laws that defend LGBT+ equality. The APPG has to ending violence and is due to be held in Rwanda the Uganda and Tanzania. Rwanda Herbert, CBE was to LGBT+ citizens as they do to couples – all in the past five years. and protect LGBT+ equality. served as an effective unifying discrimination against LGBT+ following month. We thankfully was also one of the only African a Member of the UK everyone else, and it is regrettable The pace of this change is Parliamentarians also approve voice for Parliamentarians wishing people by holding governments now have a precedent for LGBT+ nations to sign the UN joint Parliament between that in 2020 there are still 34 even more remarkable when government budgets and vote to take a stand on behalf of to account and pushing for rights to feature in discussions statement condemning violence 2005-2019 and Chair Commonwealth member states we consider that LGBT+ rights on the funding for projects that LGBT+ people globally, and on legislative change. Since then, at CHOGM, after the UK’s then- against LGBT+ people, and that criminalise same-sex intimacy. in some corners of the world can make a real difference to multiple occasions it has secured the Caucus has also launched a Prime Minister, Rt Hon. Theresa a number of brave LGBT+ of the UK All-Party It is only with the work of dedicated have been going backwards, LGBT+ people in communities. debating time in Parliament on successful Asia-Pacific chapter May, MP expressed her “deep individuals are increasingly visible Parliamentary Group and impassioned change-makers, regardless of the legality of For example, the UK Foreign & key equality issues. The group has which has facilitated dialogue regret” for Britain’s historical in Rwandan society, such as the on Global LGBT+ both in government and in civil homosexuality. State-sponsored Commonwealth Office funds also lobbied on matters of grave between elected representatives legacy of discriminatory laws popular gospel singer Albert Rights between 2015- society, that the necessary reforms violence has seen gay men in several civil society organisations concern, for instance pressing from Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, across the Commonwealth and Nabonibo who publicly came out will be achieved. Chechnya tortured and imprisoned in their work to reform equality the Commonwealth Secretary- the Philippines and New Zealand urged other nations to overhaul last year. 2019. He is the Chair We have seen encouraging in detention camps, the police laws in other nations, and the General for a diplomatic response on LGBT+ priorities in the region, their anti-LGBT+ legislation. It There is an expectation of the Global Equality steps forward. Activists and civil in Turkey brutally suppressing Department for International to the developing situation in including the sharing of political will be a missed opportunity if the among activists involved with the Caucus as well as society groups have successfully Pride events, and police raids and Development currently funds Brunei last year. knowledge and experiences of leaders at CHOGM 2020 fail to Commonwealth Equality Network the Countryside challenged repressive laws in crackdowns against the LGBT+ research projects through UK Working in this and other marriage equality campaigns. reflect on what progress has been that language on LGBT+ rights Belize, India, Botswana, and community continue to persist Aid Connect to support LGBT+ All-Party Parliamentary Groups The Caucus is also helping to made since the previous meeting will feature at CHOGM 2020, if Alliance, The Trinidad and Tobago, and litigators in Indonesia. 12 countries still inclusion in the development (APPGs) made me realise establish a national LGBT+ and on what more needs to be not at the main summit then at Project for Modern have brought forward court cases include the death penalty as a goals of numerous countries. This the opportunity to mobilise network in Canada, modelled after done to ensure the human rights fringe events and more informal Democracy and the in numerous other countries. maximum sentence for same- Parliamentarians at a global the UK APPG on Global LGBT+ of LGBT+ people are not ignored meetings. It will be a measure of Global TB Caucus. As However, it is not just court sex intimacy, and it is shameful level. While politicians in the UK Rights and the United States with respect to the values of the how far we have come, and how judgements that are changing that one of these countries, have been generally receptive to Congressional LGBT Equality Commonwealth Charter. far we have yet to go, whether a Parliamentarian, the landscape of equality in the Brunei, is a member state of the “Legislators are LGBT+ equality, many elected Caucus, and is co-ordinating with Of course, the host country politicians at the summit are he served as Shadow Commonwealth. In the past Commonwealth. It was only after uniquely placed to officials campaigning on these the UK Government to deliver has a big say in the shape of the prepared to engage with the Minister for Police decade alone, governments effective lobbying from civil society hold governments issues in other countries are often an international LGBT+ rights CHOGM agenda, so there is a language of representatives from Reform, Shadow and legislators have introduced groups and Commonwealth High lone voices with no forum to share conference in May 2020. This question of whether LGBT+ civil society. We need progressive various laws to recognise and Commissioners last year that the to account, provide a knowledge and resource their major event, which I will chair, will equality will feature at all at the and courageous politicians to Secretary of State for protect their LGBT+ citizens. Sultan of Brunei decided to extend voice to the concerns efforts. That’s why last year I and link Parliamentarians with civil upcoming summit. Life can be lead if we are to see positive and Justice and Shadow Lawmakers have decriminalised a moratorium on enforcing the other Members of Parliaments society networks and Government incredibly difficult for LGBT+ lasting change for LGBT+ people Secretary of State for homosexuality in Fiji, Mozambique, death penalty as a punishment. of the people they from around the world founded Ministers from across the world. people in Central Africa, and in the Commonwealth over the Environment, Food Nauru, Lesotho and the There is cause for concern about represent, influence the Global Equality Caucus, the The LGBT+ rights conference Rwanda does not have any legal coming years. Seychelles. Mozambique and the treatment of LGBT+ citizens in first international network of this Spring is a fantastic protections for LGBT+ citizens. and Rural Affairs the Seychelles have also passed a number of other Commonwealth the national debate, Parliamentarians and elected opportunity to set a meaningful Yet there are reasons to be The Global Equality Caucus before becoming additional protections against countries, too. and enact the representatives dedicated to agenda for LGBT+ equality work optimistic. Same-sex intimacy is an international network of Minister for Policing employment discrimination, It is vitally important that laws that defend tackling LGBT+ discrimination, this decade, and will help to feed has never been a criminal Parliamentarians and elected and Criminal Justice. and Fiji’s new Constitution has politicians are seen to be regardless of sexual orientation in to a manifesto for action ahead offence in the country, a powerful representatives aiming to tackle banned all discrimination on the taking a stand against actions and protect LGBT+ or gender identity. We work of the next Commonwealth Heads distinction compared to Rwanda’s discrimination against LGBT+ people. basis of sexual orientation and that threaten the rights and equality.” in partnership with civil society of Government Meeting, which Commonwealth neighbours, Visit https://equalitycaucus.org/.

40 | The Parliamentarian | 2020: Issue One | 100th anniversary issue 1920-2020 The Parliamentarian | 2020: Issue One | 100th anniverary issue 1920-2020 | 41 THE NEED TO ERADICATE THE NEED TO ERADICATE INEQUALITY IN SOUTH AFRICA: A INEQUALITY IN SOUTH AFRICA: A VIEW FROM THE SOUTH AFRICA VIEW FROM THE SOUTH AFRICA HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION THE NEED TO ERADICATE INEQUALITY IN SOUTH AFRICA: A VIEW FROM THE SOUTH AFRICAN HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION

Siphelo Mbeki is a South Africa remains one of the lines amongst others. According to housing, amongst others. There most unequal countries globally, the 2017 Land Audit Report, 90% is accordingly a need to prioritise Researcher at the South measured both in terms of of the country’s land is owned by the needy, landless and most African Human Rights income and wealth. According individuals, companies, and trusts. poor if the redistribution of land Commission. to Credit Suisse Global Wealth From this number, individuals own is likely to achieve the desired Report 2018, South Africa has 39% of the total land, trusts own end of substantive equality. high levels of inequality when it 31% followed by companies which Redistribution of land does not Shanelle van der comes to the distribution of wealth own 25%, Community Based only mean ‘ownership’ of such Berg is a Senior with the country’s top 10% of Organisations (CBOs) own 4%, land as conceived of in Western Researcher at the South wealth holders controlling 68% and co-owners constitute 1%. jurisdictions, but must also include 1 African Human Rights of total wealth. Moreover, the According to the report, ‘the same access to communal land, or other disproportional distribution of individuals own most of these forms of secure tenure that do not Commission. wealth continues to manifests companies, trusts and CBOs’.4 necessarily constitute ownership. along racial, gender, disability, Furthermore, South African At this rate, with the situation geographical and other lines. individuals own 92% of the total worsening instead of improving, For instance, senior employment farms and agricultural holdings. more needs to be done urgently opportunities are mostly accessed From this number, white South to facilitate economic inclusion. In by white men, most of whom are Africans own 72% of such farms addition to facilitating fair access not living with any disabilities. and agricultural holdings while to the labour and economic Likewise, ownership and control Africans own a mere 4%. Of markets for all; amongst others, of the economy continues to be the overall farm and agricultural quality free and fair education dominated by white men despite holdings land owned by individuals needs to be made available to all, legislation and policies aimed in the country, men own 71% particularly the poor. Education disabilities attend separate special to be flexible, accommodating Finally, South African society References: at catalyzing Black Economic while women own 13%.5 is one of the most powerful tools needs schools. Worryingly, as short-, medium- and long- term cannot be transformed along 1 https://businesstech.co.za/news/ Empowerment. Whereas the South at the government’s disposal far as the South African Human needs, appropriately budgeted egalitarian lines without the wealth/278477/this-is-how-much- The necessity to speedily African Parliament adopted a for the eradication of poverty Rights Commission is aware, for, cater to the needs of the contribution of the private sector. money-the-top-one-percenter-is- eradicate inequality is also made resolution to pursue a policy and achievement of substantive currently no ‘no-fee’ special needs most vulnerable and poor, and be Whereas various actors, including worth-in-south-africa/?fbclid=IwAR1o urgent by the existence of poverty. of land expropriation without equality.6 The unequal access schools exist. This phenomenon implemented in a constitutionally the South African Human Rights 6owzIKfWLzt1yi-QX6W-HNW42k5Sh Although poverty has decreased compensation, research conducted to educational institutions and is especially concerning in the appropriate manner. Additionally, Commission, has observed that x5472sLv5qxOBq6GchkshI9YTA since 2009, the percentage of the by civil society organisations inequality experienced within light of the vicious cycle that exists when such laws are being enacted the private sector has contributed 2 South African Human Rights population living below the upper and the South African Human education are closely linked to between poverty and disability. there needs to be meaningful insufficiently in transforming a Commission Equality Report 2017/18: bound poverty line of R992 per Rights Commission demonstrate unequal access to the labour Similarly, in higher education, the and sufficient consultation with racially unequal labour market, Achieving substantive economic person per month increased from that various legislative and market. Some of the hindrances plight of students with disabilities those most affected by such the same can be discerned in the equality through rights-based radical 53.2% in 2011 to 55.5% in 2015.2 policy gaps in respect of land to education that are facing is often overlooked, as is evinced laws. Crucially, special measures context of the economy more socio-economic transformation in South According to Statistics South reform will remain. Expropriation the majority of scholars include by the failure to adopt universal designed to advance vulnerable broadly and in respect of land Africa (2018) 17. Africa, those most affected by without compensation – albeit accommodation, tuition fees, design of educational goods and persons disadvantaged by unfair reform. Although the government 3 Ibid. poverty are generally Black African an important tool with which to language, study material and food. services at this level. discrimination must be coordinated bears the primary obligation to 4 Department of Rural females; children younger than 17 expedite land reform – therefore The adequate state funding of The South African Constitution across various contexts, including ensure the protection, promotion Development and Land Reform Land years; those living in rural areas, does not constitute the panacea to basic and higher education will allows for legislative and other the labour market, the economy and fulfilment of the fundamental Audit Report Phase II: Private Land the Eastern Cape and Limpopo; the grossly unequal distribution of go a long way to creating access measures to be designed by more broadly, education, health, rights enshrined in the South Ownership By Race, Gender And and those without education. For land in South Africa. to free quality education for the government for the protection and land reform. African Bill of Rights,9 private Nationality (2017) 2. example, approximately 64% of The equitable redistribution poor. At the basic or primary or advancement of persons, In addition, such measures actors also bear constitutional 5 Ibid 9. the Black African population and of land is thus crucial for the education level, the government or categories of persons, must be supported by sound fiscal obligations in appropriate 6 Ibid 51. 40% of the Coloured population achievement of substantive has made significant strides in disadvantaged by unfair policy choices that prioritise the circumstances.10 All members 7 Constitution of the Republic of group are poor, contrasted to a equality. Given ownership patterns establishing ‘no-fee’ schools for discrimination.7 The enactment poor and marginalised. A delicate of society must accordingly South Africa, 1996. Section 9 (2) mere 6% of the Indian/Asian of land that are skewed in the poor. However, inequality and implementation of such balance therefore needs to be contribute to the transformation of 8 UN Human Rights Council Report population group and just 1% of terms of race, gender and class, between schools where fees laws and policies constitute struck in ensuring investment South Africa in order to realise the of the Special Rapporteur on extreme the white population group.3 equitable redistribution of land are paid and no-fee schools powerful mechanisms through and economic growth, while constitutional vision of a society poverty and human rights, Philip Alston Furthermore, ownership of is necessary. The unavailability remains apparent. Importantly, which government should aim to simultaneously recognising that based on freedom, human dignity A/HRC/29/31 (2015) para 53. assets such as land, which are of both well-situated urban and South Africa does moreover not combat both vertical and horizontal taxation and related fiscal policies and equality. 9 Constitution of the Republic of inextricably linked to wealth, is rural land contributes to a lack of yet boast an inclusive education inequality. For such laws to achieve ultimately constitute, in many South Africa, 1996. Section 7(2) divided along racial and gender production of food and access to system, in that children with the desired outcomes they need respects, ‘human rights policies’.8 10 Ibid. Section 8(2)

Cross-party support for legislation defining Female Genital Mutilation in New Zealand Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians from Pakistan visit UK Parliament for

A Bill to clarify the law around Female Genital Mutilation a study visit exploring women and gender in legislation (FGM) has been introduced to the Parliament of The Commonwealth Women New Zealand by women MPs from Labour, National, Parliamentarians Chairperson, Hon. the Green Party and New Zealand First, working Shandana Gulzar Khan, MNA joined together as members of the Commonwealth Women a delegation from the Women’s Parliamentarians New Zealand Group (CWP). Parliamentary Caucus (WPC) of Pakistan This is the first time that legislation has been introduced led by the WPC Secretary, Hon. Munaza in the name of MPs from multiple parties in New Zealand Hassan, MNA to hear about women’s role and highlights the value of the cross-party work led in legislation and parliamentary oversight by the CWP to collaborate on issues relevant to the on a study visit to the UK Parliament from empowerment of girls and women. 27 to 31 January 2020, organised by the The Crimes (Definition of Female Genital Mutilation) CPA UK Branch. The delegation included Amendment Bill is intended to update the definition eight Members of the National Assembly of FGM in the New Zealand Crimes Act, to align of Pakistan and five Members of the with standard World Health Organisation (WHO) Provincial Assemblies of Sindh, Punjab, classifications of types of FGM and international best Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. practice recommendations. It signals that no form of FGM is of the FGM Education Programme who continue to engage with The study visit exploring women and acceptable, as it is an abuse of girls and women. communities with the goal of elimination of FGM. They do this by gender in legislation, scrutiny and oversight The Bill has been jointly sponsored by Jo Hayes MP (National), leading, designing and delivering FGM awareness and education included presentations by leading UK Priyanca Radhakrishnan MP (Labour), Jenny Marcroft MP (New initiatives in their communities. FGM Educators in these Parliamentarians including Baroness Uddin Zealand First) and Golriz Ghahraman MP (Green Party). communities are supportive of the need to update legislation to on the structure of the UK Parliament and Co-Chairs of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians align with the WHO definition of FGM and have been advocating shared challenges and opportunities faced New Zealand Group, Jo Hayes and Louisa Wall, have stressed for this change for many years.” by women Parliamentarians; former Chair that the draft legislation addresses a cultural practice, and is not The Bill was open to submissions from interested groups and of the UK House of Commons Women and The majority of speakers agreed with the delegates, many based on religion. “We are clear that violence against women individuals and had its first reading on 4 December 2019 as Equalities Committee, Rt Hon. Maria Miller, MP on the key role of of whom held a seat reserved for women, that quotas or other and girls is entirely unacceptable and cannot be allowed to part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence, which the Committee in the scrutiny function of parliament; and Baroness forms of positive action are essential to improving women’s hide behind tradition. In New Zealand there are a range of follows the United Nations International Day for Elimination of Jenkin of Kennington, Co-Chair and Co-Founder of Women2Win, representation at the necessary pace. Such measures cannot, communities impacted by FGM and we acknowledge the work Violence Against Women on 25 November. a campaign to elect more Conservative women to Parliament, however, address the perennial issue that fewer women than men on the importance of encouraging the next generation of women stand as candidates. Parliamentarians coming through. The former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Rt Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians feature at a gender panel discussion at The delegation explored issues related to different levels of Hon. Theresa May, MP joined a reception for the delegates the World Economic Forum in Davos and link with international partners in Geneva representation: the UK Parliament, the Greater London Assembly, from Pakistan and reflected on the importance of women’s a London Borough Council, and a London constituency. In representation to effective parliamentary scrutiny. The Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) network was represented at a addition to introducing delegates to the UK Parliament and The CPA UK Branch has a long-term partnership with the gender panel discussion at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland by the CPA Westminster committee system, the study visit also examined Pakistan Women’s Parliamentary Caucus and since 2012 has Headquarter Secretariat’s James Pinnell who emphasised the importance of collaborations gender-sensitive scrutiny, legislation to improve gender equality, undertaken a number of programmes aimed at enhancing the role and partnerships in successfully championing gender equality and further referenced the and diversity and inclusion. and capabilities of women Parliamentarians in Pakistan. vast reach that the CWP network has in facilitating this. The panel discussion on ‘UN SDG5: gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls’ was organised by the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Institute of Sustainability and featured distinguished panellists including the Second CWP British Islands and Mediterranean Regional Steering Committee of IPU Secretary-General, Martin Chungong; UN Women, Deputy Director, Anita Bhatia; and 2019 held in Scotland the Director of Corporate Responsibility at RELX, Dr Márcia Balisciano. The CWP invited Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians from the CPA British Islands and Mediterranean Region met at the Scottish Parliament for research and other expertise that potential partners may be able to provide from the event a CWP Regional Steering Committee meeting to share good practice on gender

partners and looks forward to future collaborations with like-minded organisations striving www.cpahq.org/cpahq/flickr . sensitive Parliaments and to look at how to keep initiatives going forward across for the same goals. the Region. The CWP regional meeting saw the handing over of the CWP BIM Prior to the panel event, the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians Chairperson, Hon. Regional Chair from outgoing Chair, Roberta Blackman-Woods (UK) to Acting Shandana Gulzar Khan visited the Headquarters of the Inter-Parliamentary Union to meet Chair, Margaret Mitchell, MSP (Scotland). New CWP BIM Acting Regional Chair, with the IPU Secretary-General, Martin Chungong to discuss collaboration between the Margaret Mitchell, MSP said that there was “good discussion on reducing sexual IPU and CWP on gender projects. While in Geneva, Switzerland, the CWP Chairperson harassment and what Parliaments should do to improve diversity amongst female also met with key figures in international gender rights including Amanda Ellis, Executive candidates. The Scottish Parliament is pleased to have introduced initiatives to help Director from the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Institute of Sustainability; Veronica Birga, Chief diversity and inclusion. For example, promoting a zero-tolerance approach to sexual of the Women’s Human Rights and Gender Section, Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights; and Uma harassment and sexist behaviour and the Scottish Parliament recently launched Mishra-Newbery, Executive Director, Women’s March Global. its Period and Menopause Policy. We look forward to learning more about best practices of other legislatures through the CWP network.” For more images of CWP activities and events please visit

3rd Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Australia Regional Conference Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians Chairperson builds partnership links in South Australia held on the theme of ‘125 years towards getting even’ for gender equality with international organisations based in Paris From 8 to 9 October 2019, over 50 women Parliamentarians from The Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) all sides of politics and all state, territory and federal Legislatures Chairperson, Hon. Shandana Gulzar Khan, MNA has been in the CPA Australia Region attended the 3rd Commonwealth building new partnership links for collaboration on gender Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Australia Regional Conference, equality during a recent visit to organisations based in Paris, which was hosted by the Parliament of South Australia in Adelaide. France. 125 years ago, the Adult Suffrage Bill was passed in South Australia The CWP Chairperson was speaking at the OECD Global which gave South Australian women the right to vote in general Parliamentary Network at a session on internet safety for elections and to stand for Parliament for the first time ever in Australia, women organised by Women Political Leaders (WPL) one of the first places in the world to see this change in legislation. and OECD. The CWP Chairperson shared her personal The two-day CWP Regional Conference was held as part of the perspective and experiences on the importance of making celebrations of 125 years of women’s suffrage in South Australia the web a safer place for women Parliamentarians alongside and the Regional Conference programme included consideration two Members of the European Parliament, Maria Spyraki, of the gains that women have made toward parity of representation MEP (Greece) and Lina Galvez Muñoz, MEP (Spain) as well in Australia and the further work that needs to be done. as Managing Director of WPL, Rick Zednik and Political Currently the Australian Capital Territory Legislature and the and Rebecca Lightowler presented their winning speeches on the Officer from Facebook, Elisa Borry. Tasmanian Parliament have over 50% of women in their membership. theme of how to encourage more women to stand for Parliament. The CWP Chairperson went on to meet with the against women and possible collaborative projects with the At the CWP Regional Conference, delegates spent time discussing The second day of the CWP Regional Conference focused on UNESCO Director for Gender Equality, Ms S. Gülser Corat to CWP. La Francophonie has placed special emphasis on the fight how the CWP Australia Region might encourage more women to personal safety for women Parliamentarians. Ginger Gorman, a discuss possibilities for future collaboration towards achieving to end gender-based violence; women’s participation in political stand for Parliament and to advocate for and support those who have journalist and cyber-hate specialist, explained the very real risks of gender equality and SDG5. UNESCO believes that all forms of and decision-making processes; advocating for gender equality; already won their places in Legislatures around the country. internet trolls and gave some practical advice on how to counter discrimination based on gender are violations of human rights, and inclusion of the gender equality issues as part of sustainable Former federal Senator, Minister and Australian Ambassador their attacks. as well as a significant barrier to the achievement of the 2030 development. “Building new partnership links to Italy, Amanda Vanstone made an opening address to the Many Commonwealth Parliaments have recognised that Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 Sustainable The CWP Chairperson said: for the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians network with Regional Conference and spoke of the importance of celebrating unacceptable levels of bullying and harassment exist in Development Goals. international organisations is vital to our future development the women who have put themselves forward and stood for parliamentary life and that there are often no formal mechanisms The CWP Chairperson also visited the Assemblée Parlementaire and strengthening our work in promoting gender equality Parliament, and encouraging those who may do so in the future. for Parliamentarians to address this. Barbara Kuriger, MP, a de la Francophonie (APF) where she met with the Administrative and women’s participation in political and decision-making Similarities were noted with advances for women in politics CWP Member from the New Zealand Parliament, reported to Secretary-General, Mr Emmanuel Maury and representatives processes.” compared against women in the male-dominated world of sports the plenary that the New Zealand Speaker had commissioned an from the organisation to discuss proposals to combat harassment journalism. Sports writer, Angela Pippos, described a ‘playing independent report with recommendations this year in order to field of prejudice and discrimination’ that she has observed for begin to bring about positive change. the past 20 years. She told the Regional Conference about the Hon. Michelle O’Byrne, MP, Chair of the Australia Region CWP Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians Chairperson promotes increased glacial pace of improvement and the results finally appearing. Steering Committee, has written to all Australian Presiding Officers Dr Pia Rowe, a Research Fellow from the 50/50 by 2030 and political party leaders asking them to outline how this issue is being women’s representation in the Provincial Assemblies of Pakistan Institute, reported on national attitudes to gender equality with addressed. Many Parliaments have responded and it is clear that a The Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians statistics on how the Australian population views the roles of men consistent approach to this problem is lacking. The CWP Australia Chairperson, Hon. Shandana Gulzar Khan, MNA and women. She said that 88% of Australians believe that gender Region Steering Committee continues to hold Parliaments to account has launched the first of four workshops on the role, equality is still a problem. for improving conditions for all Australian women Parliamentarians. rights and duties of women Parliamentarians in the Hon. Vickie Chapman MP, Deputy Premier and Attorney-General At the end of the CWP Regional Conference, Hon. Kezia Purick, Provincial Assemblies and Women’s Caucuses of of South Australia, addressed young South Australian women and MLA, Speaker of the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly, Pakistan. The CWP Chairperson spoke about the delegates at a reception where the two winners of the ‘Getting It th advised that the 4 CWP Australia Regional Conference will be work of the CWP and its role in supporting women Even’ speech competition were announced. Luci Blackborough held in Darwin in 2021. Parliamentarians in national, subnational and territorial Parliaments across the Commonwealth.

CWP attend Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF28) in Australia Canadian Senator Salma Ataullahjan also spoke at www.cpahq.org/cpahq/flickr . During the 28th Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF28) in Australia, a meeting the event and gave Members an insight into her role of APPF Women Parliamentarians was convened at the forum for the first time. The in the Canadian Parliament and her experiences as a meeting was chaired by Senator Sue Lines, Deputy President of the Australian Senate woman of Pakistani Pashtun origin in politics. and the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Branch Representative for the The first workshop was attended by Ministers and Australia Parliament. The meeting discussed three topics - promoting gender equality for women Members from the Provincial Assemblies of sustainable development and shared prosperity realising the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Pakistan – including Balochistan, Sindh, Khyber- Development; improving access for women and girls to education, innovation and Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab – and the workshops have technology; and promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment in decision-making been organised by the Westminster Foundation for at all levels. Delegates from Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia (including Democracy as part of the Commonwealth Partnership the first female Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives), Laos, Malaysia, for Democracy (CP4D). Mexico, New Zealand, Russia and Vietnam elaborated on these themes. For more images of CWP activities and events please visit

Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous as traditional cultural entities, multiple nations occasion and spoke about the evolution Report Peoples Act working together as a collective, hereditary of recognising Indigenous rights in British Bill 41, Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous governments or a combination of elected and Columbia. A common theme throughout NEWS AND LEGISLATION FROM COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTS Peoples Act, is designed to affirm the hereditary governments. In addition to requiring the debate was the importance of section application of the United Nations Declaration the development of an action plan, the Bill 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, which on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples would require annual reporting to monitor recognised and affirmed existing Aboriginal (UNDRIP) to provincial laws. The Bill also progress on the action plan, in collaboration and rights in Canada. Members noted that much seeks to contribute to the implementation consultation with Indigenous peoples. progress has been made in recent decades of UNDRIP and support the affirmation of, John Rustad, MLA and Official Opposition by Indigenous Peoples, especially regarding and develop relationships with, Indigenous Critic on Forest, Lands, and Natural Resource benefits agreements. Some Members focused governing bodies. To this end, it requires the Operations (and a former Minister of on the move from transactional agreements government to prepare, implement, and report Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation), to a more transformational approach based on an action plan to achieve the objectives highlighted the importance of supporting the on relationship building as an important THIRD READING of UNDRIP and provides for agreements to advancement of reconciliation and sought part of the Bill. Members also debated the REPORTS be entered into with Indigenous governing information about how issues regarding practical implications and consequences of bodies. The Bill was developed in collaboration land and overlapping territories would be the Bill with inquiries about grazing rights, park British Columbia with the First Nations Leadership Council addressed. He noted that the Bill could management, and the impact on the forest representing the British Columbia Assembly impact potential court cases and inquired industry and mining activity. Regarding the Page 49 of First Nations, the First Nations Summit and about the structures and processes regarding issue of consent, Members requested details the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs. decision-making agreements with Indigenous about the consequences when a project Australia Federal Prior to the introduction of the Bill on 24 governing bodies. Acknowledging questions involves multiple First Nations and not all of Hon. Scott Fraser Page 52 October 2019 by , Minister that he has received regarding the meaning them can come to an agreement. The motion of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, of ‘free, prior and informed consent’ (a phrase for the Second Reading of the Bill was adopted the proceedings of the Legislative Assembly used multiple times in UNDRIP), he asked unanimously. New Zealand were opened by Elder Shirley Alphonse of the about potential opportunities for public Much of the subsequent consideration Page 57 T’Sou-ke Nation offering a blessing, followed engagement on this issue. of the Bill by the Committee of the Whole by a land acknowledgement by Elder Butch During his Second Reading comments, Mr focused on specific articles of UNDRIP, which Dick of the Songhees Nation, and drumming Olsen described the importance of addressing were included in a schedule of the Bill. The Sri Lanka by the Lekwungen Traditional Dancers. the colonial legacy in social structures and motions to report the Bill complete without Page 66 Following the First Reading of the Bill, the institutions that is causing intergenerational amendment and for the Third Reading of the Legislative Assembly suspended proceedings harm to Indigenous peoples. He also Bill were agreed to unanimously. so that Grand Chief Ed John, Cheryl Casimer, explained that consent is not a veto but rather The Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous India Union a member of the First Nations Summit Political a commitment to working together and acting Peoples Act received Third Reading on 26 Page 73 Executive, Regional Chief Terry Teegee, and in good faith from the beginning of a project. November 2019 and came into force by Royal Grand Chief Stewart Phillip could address He noted that the adoption of UNDRIP was a Assent on 28 November 2019. This makes the Assembly. The ceremony also included central feature of the Confidence and Supply British Columbia the first jurisdiction in Canada remarks by Hon. John Horgan, Premier; Agreement signed by Members of the British to affirm the application of UNDRIP by statute. With thanks to our Parliamentary President of Sri Lanka ceremonially Andrew Wilkinson, MLA, Leader of the Columbia Green Caucus and the British Report and Third Reading Official Opposition; and Adam Olsen, MLA, Columbia New Democrat Caucus following contributors: Mohammed Katamba opens Parliament Page 64 a Member of the Third Party and a member of the 2017 provincial general election which (Parliament of Uganda); Paras the Tsartlip First Nation. Pursuant to a motion resulted in a minority Parliament. The Ramoutar (Parliament of Trinidad CANADA AUSTRALIA UGANDA adopted by the Legislative Assembly, their Agreement established the basis for which and Tobago); Stephen Boyd comments were transcribed and included as the British Columbia Green Caucus would Canadian Government sworn in Australia Federal Parliament Amendment to Constitution (Federal Parliament of Australia); Dr an appendix to the Official Report of Debates provide support to a minority government Jayadev Sahu (Parliament of India); following fall elections responds to Australian Bushfires ahead of 2021 general elections of the Legislative Assembly. led by the British Columbia New Democratic Gabrielle de Billy Brown (Federal Page 50 Page 54 Page 60 During the Second Reading debate, Party, leading to a government transition Parliament of Canada); Luke Harris Minister Fraser explained that Bill 41 sets from the British Columbia Liberal Party to (Parliament of New Zealand); UNITED KINGDOM TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO INDIA UNDRIP as the framework for reconciliation the British Columbia New Democratic Party. Ravindra Garimella (Parliament of in British Columbia, as called for by the Truth Overall nine Government Members, six UK Parliament passes EU New Budget and return to the India Parliament amends the India); Neil Iddawala (Parliament of and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Members of the Official Opposition and Sri Lanka); Katey Stickle (Legislative Withdrawal Agreement Red House Citizenship Act Action No. 43. He explained that this Bill one Member of the Third Party debated the Assembly of British Columbia); and Page 62 Page 68 Page 70 would allow for Indigenous peoples to make Bill for nearly five hours during the Second Michael Berry (Parliament of the decisions about their governing structures Reading. Many Members emphasised that United Kingdom). which could include governing bodies such the introduction of this Bill is an historic

has been announced for 2020. after leaving her position role as Government Liaison medical assistance in dying CANADIAN GOVERNMENT SWORN IN FOLLOWING FALL ELECTIONS Jo-Ann Roberts has been as legislative deputy to the but would remain in his role is unconstitutional. While the named Interim Leader. Government Representative in until a new Government ruling only applies for the On 12 December 2019, the Senate, Hon. Peter Harder. Representative in the Senate province of Québec, the federal Hon. Andrew Scheer, MP On 14 November 2019, the is named by the Prime government has committed to announced his upcoming Independent Liberal Senate Minister. On 24 January 2020, modifying the law that applies resignation as leader of the caucus announced that it the Prime Minister announced across the country. It has until Conservative Party of Canada. was disbanding, and that the that Hon. Marc Gold was 11 March 2020 to comply. An He remains in office until a entirety of its membership appointed Government online consultation has been new leader is chosen by the were joining a new group: Representative in the Senate. launched to gather Canadians’ party membership. Former MP, The Progressive Senate On 20 January 2020, Hon. opinions on the issue. In Hon. Lisa Raitt was named Group. This new group in turn Nicole Eaton retired, having addition, a broader review of co-chair of the Organising disbanded on 17 November served since 2009. On 24 the medical assistance in dying Committee responsible for after Hon. Percy Downe left January 2020, Hon. Joseph legislation is planned for 2020. the leadership race, which to join the Canadian Senators Day retired, having served was officially launched on 13 Group. The remaining since 2001. Legislation January 2020. The election of Members decided to sit as As of 31 January 2020, the Following the ratification on a new leader will be held on 27 non-affiliated. standings in the Senate were: 16 January 2020 by the United June 2020. On 18 November 2019, Independent Senators Group States Senate of the United- In order to be eligible, Hon. Jean-Guy Dagenais 50, Conservative Party 23, States-Canada-Mexico- potential candidates must announced that he was leaving Canadian Senators Group 13, Agreement, an updated free pay an entry fee of $200,000, the Conservative Party to join non-affiliated 12 and vacant 7. trade agreement between a compliance deposit of the Canadian Senators Group. the three countries, Canada $100,000 and signatures On 29 November 2019, Hon. Decision by the Québec remains the only country from 3,000 party members Peter Harder stepped down Superior Court that has not completed its from 30 Electoral District from his role as Government In September 2019, the ratification process. On 29 On 20 November 2019, the Cabinet: Hon. Anita Anand, Indigenous peoples, keeping relationship. The motion also Associations. As of 23 January, Representative in the Senate Superior Court of Québec January 2020, Hon. Chrystia re-elected Prime Minister MP as Minister of Public Canadians safe and healthy, states that the Committee eight candidates had officially and became non-affiliated. ruled that the “reasonable Freeland, MP tabled of Canada, Rt Hon. Justin Services and Procurement; and positioning Canada for has the power to order the declared their intentions, The same day, Hon. Grant foreseeability of natural legislation to that effect and Trudeau, MP announced and Hon. Steven Guilbeault, success in an uncertain world. Prime Minister, the Minister of including Marilyn Gladu, MP Mitchell announced that he death” criterion in the federal which is up for debate in the his cabinet. It is composed MP as Minister of Canadian Recognising that it was the Foreign Affairs, the Minister and former MP, Hon. Peter would step down from his Criminal Code regarding House of Commons. of 37 Members, a majority Heritage. will of the people that returned of Public Safety and the Mackay. Mr. Mackay was the of whom were Members of a minority Parliament, the Canadian Ambassador to leader of the Progressive Cabinet prior to dissolution. Opening of Parliament Speech emphasised the need China to appear as witnesses. Conservative Party of Canada A few returning Ministers When the 43rd Parliament for increased collaboration as The Special Committee held until its merger with the changed portfolios, such met for the first time on well as consideration about its first meeting on 20 January Reform Party in 2003. as Hon. Chrystia Freeland, 5 December 2019, Hon. regions and their local needs. 2020, at which time it elected MP, now Minister of Anthony Rota, MP was Hon. Geoff Regan, MP, Changes in the Senate Intergovernmental Affairs and elected by preferential Committees the former Speaker of the On 31 October 2019, Deputy Prime Minister; Hon. ballot as the 37th Speaker While the 43rd Parliament is House of Commons, as Chair. Conservative Senator Hon. Catherine McKenna, MP, of the House of Commons. underway, as of 31 January The Vice-Chairs are Chris Larry Smith announced that now Minister of Infrastructure In addition, the House of 2020, only three House Warkentin, MP from the he would not seek re-election and Communities; and Commons selected Bruce of Commons Standing Conservative Party, Stéphane as Leader of the Opposition Hon. François-Philippe Stanton, MP as Deputy Committees have been struck: Bergeron, MP from the Bloc in the Senate. He was Champagne, MP, now Speaker and two Assistant Health, International Trade, Québécois and Jack Harris, succeeded by Hon. Don Plett Minister of Foreign Affairs. Deputy Speakers: Carol Finance and Procedure and MP from the New Democratic on 6 November 2019. Cabinet also includes Hughes, MP and Alexandra House Affairs. The latter is Party. On 4 November 2019, 11 re-elected MPs who were not Mendès, MP. responsible for reporting to the Senators announced the in Cabinet previously, such On 5 December 2019, House the lists of Members of Changes in Party creation of a new group: the as Hon. Dan Vandal, MP as the Governor-General of all the other Committees and Leadership Canadian Senators Group. It Minister of Northern Affairs; Canada, Her Excellency Rt must do so before they can On 4 November 2019, is composed of Senators who Hon. Marco Mendicino, MP Hon. Julie Payette read the begin their work. Elizabeth May, MP were previously affiliated with as Minister of Immigration, Speech from the Throne. In addition, on 10 December announced that she would the Independent Senators Refugees and Citizenship; Titled ‘Moving Forward 2019, the House of Commons step down as leader of the Group, the Conservative Party and Hon. Mona Fortier, MP Together’, it focused on five adopted a motion creating Green Party of Canada, after and the Liberal Party. as Minister of Middle Class goals: fighting climate change, the Special Committee on holding this position for On 13 November 2019, Hon. Prosperity and Associate strengthening the middle Canada-China Relations, over 13 years. She remains Diane Bellemare announced Minister of Finance. Two newly class, walking the road of tasked with examining all parliamentary leader for the that she was joining the elected MPs were named to reconciliation with Canada’s aspects of the Canada-China party. A leadership contest Independent Senators Group

only taking action to deal with the consequences of natural disasters but also taking steps to THIRD READING: AUSTRALIA minimise the impact of those disasters before they occur. Unfortunately, as a result of climate Greg Mullins identified this year, what we are downward pressure on electricity prices.” change, we do face the certainty of increased seeing is the effects of climate change putting The Treasurer advised that “this legislation frequency and scale of natural disasters into the more and more people and homes at risk. We sets out a graduated set of penalties that can future. Already this year, we are seeing bushfires cannot shy away from the fact that communities apply in the event of misconduct. The ACCC strike many parts of our country, including my are hurting because the government isn’t acting will be able to issue a warning notice, accept home state of Queensland, in areas that have on the climate emergency. People are hurting. an enforceable undertaking or seek a financial not traditionally experienced them. Of course, Lives and homes are being tragically lost. penalty of up to the greatest of $10 million, three every summer that comes round we see floods, Animals are suffering and dying in droughts and times the value of the total benefit attributable cyclones and bushfires right across the country. bushfires and the intense heat. I’m frightened by to the conduct, or 10% of the annual turnover As I say, as a result of climate change, it is likely the thought of what this summer will bring.” of the corporation in the 12 months before that these types of disasters will occur.” the conduct occurred. For the most egregious Senator Watt noted that “Labor has had Treasury Laws Amendment (Prohibiting conduct, the ACCC will be able to recommend concerns for some time that the government has Energy Market Misconduct) Act 2019 that the Treasurer either issue a contracting order not adequately invested in disaster mitigation - The legislation amends the Competition and or pursue a divestiture order in the courts.” that is, works to reduce the impact of disasters Consumer Act 2010 to prohibit certain conduct in Mr Frydenberg commented that “a before they actually hit. In fact, in Queensland electricity retail, contract and wholesale markets, contracting order will only be able to be made there’s been a debate going on for some time to broadly relating to retail pricing, financial contract following a breach of either the contract liquidity build a flood levee in the city of Rockhampton, market liquidity and conduct in wholesale spot or aggravated wholesale conduct prohibitions. which has experienced, I think, three floods over markets. In particular, the legislation enables the A divestiture order will only be able to be made the last seven or eight years.” Treasurer, following the receipt of a prohibited following an aggravated breach of the wholesale Senator Watt advised that “I’m happy to conduct recommendation from the Australian conduct prohibition.” He advised that both foreshadow that the opposition will be moving a Competition and Consumer Commission, to apply sanctions were of last resort. number of amendments to the Bill which have to the Federal Court (the court) for a divestiture Senator Jenny McAllister (Australian Labor been agreed with the government. Under the order and for the court to make related orders that Party) commented that “Labor was critical of commitments that we have extracted from the a corporation or another body corporate dispose the original Bill in the last Parliament. It risked government, the government will increase the of interests in securities or assets that are part of doing harm and it seriously risked the privatisation funding available under its proposed Emergency its electricity business. of publicly owned electricity generators. Response Fund from $150 million a year, The Treasurer, Hon. Josh Frydenberg, The government has dealt with some of our Emergency Response Fund Act 2019 catastrophically impacted by a natural disaster, the government for education infrastructure. The which is what was in the original Bill, to $200 MP, stated that “the Australian energy market reservations by introducing into this Parliament The legislation uses uncommitted funds from the government will have access to a maximum of government is committed to a world-class higher million per year … The other commitment that has not been serving consumers well. That’s a different Bill, which makes improvements, the Education Investment Fund to establish $150 million per year to fund recovery measures. education system and is investing a record Labor has extracted from the government is a why the Liberal-National government directed particularly in relation to privatisation. The the Emergency Response Fund (ERF) as a This funding is over and above the funding $17.7 billion in the university sector in 2019. commitment to a new $50 million investment the Australian Consumer and Competition passage of this Bill will not change the fact that, dedicated investment vehicle to provide an already made available by the Liberal-National This is projected to grow to more than $19 to upgrade TAFE facilities, to be matched by Commission (ACCC) to undertake a retail after 17 attempts, the coalition government still additional funding source for future emergency government to assist communities across billion by 2022. The government has recently participating states and territories.” electricity pricing inquiry in March 2017. This has no sensible overarching energy policy to response and natural disaster recovery. Australia recover from natural disasters, such as made significant investments into education Senator Mehreen Faruqi (Australian review identified problems in the retail, wholesale drive investment, to reduce emissions or to cut The Minister for Water Resources, Drought, the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, infrastructure projects including $150 million Greens) commented that “this Bill really does and contract markets, calling the situation power bills for struggling Australian households Rural Finance, Natural Disaster and Emergency the Australian Government Disaster Recovery to support the relocation and redevelopment of lay bare the Liberal-National government’s ‘unacceptable and unsustainable’ and noting that and businesses. This legislation has not been Management, Hon. David Littleproud, MP, Payment and the Disaster Recovery Allowance.” the University of Tasmania’s Launceston and logic-free approach to the wicked problems of energy retailers ‘have played a major role in poor recommended by the consumer watchdog. Not stated that the EFR “is designed to support the Mr Littleproud stated that “the fund will only Burnie campuses and a further $30 million our time. With this Bill they are attempting to outcomes for consumers’.” only did the ACCC, after its lengthy examination delivery of projects and services and promote be accessed when the government determines earmarked for the establishment of a new abolish Australia’s only - I repeat, only - TAFE The Treasurer noted the ACCC’s three of the retail electricity market, not recommend the the adoption of technology directed towards existing recovery programs are insufficient Central Queensland School of Mining and and university infrastructure fund, to create an key findings that “in the retail market, retailers legislation, but indeed it specifically recommended achieving recovery from natural disasters. The to meet the scale of the response required. Manufacturing. The government has made its opaque Emergency Response Fund, without a deliberately confuse customers with their against a divestiture power, as did Professor Ian type of assistance provided could include, but Payments from the Emergency Response Fund education investments without needing to draw cent for disaster resilience or any action on the discounting strategy, often using what the ACCC Harper in his landmark review of competition policy is not limited to, additional recovery grants and will be available from 2019-20 and will be limited from the Education Investment Fund. The last climate crisis. What a mess!” call ‘excessively’ high benchmarks and complex for the government a couple of years earlier.” support to affected communities or industry to $150 million to protect the balance of the fund commitment was announced in 2013 and all Senator Faruqi stated “of course we must offer structures. In the wholesale market, a lack Senator McAllister noted that “after sectors to help their recovery and to build their into the future. This limit will be reassessed within commitments have been paid.” fund disaster relief, but the Greens will not of competition has resulted in higher prices. considerable debate about the impact of resilience to future natural disasters.” 10 years, to determine whether the fund could Senator Murray Watt (Australian Labor be party to the government’s long-running In the contract market, a lack of liquidity can potential Ministerial overreach in the operation The EFR will be provided with an initial credit support a higher maximum annual disbursement.” Party) indicated that the Opposition would be campaign to cut our universities and TAFE to the act as a barrier to entry, where the dominant of the original Bill, it is pleasing to see that the of $4 billion. The Minister explained that “the The Minister noted that “the government supporting the legislation with amendments bone, while their climate inaction endangers all position of ‘gentailers’ can make it harder for government has curbed or pulled back the government intends to grow the fund to provide has been absolutely clear that the use of the agreed with the government. Senator Watt of us. In early spring we’ve seen bushfires rage smaller retailers to get hedging contracts and Ministerial power that would be able to be a new secure funding source to complement dormant Education Investment Fund to deliver stated that “to begin with I think it’s worth across New South Wales and Queensland, therefore to compete. It is these problems that exercised under this legislation. Instead, a role existing natural disaster recovery programs. In the Emergency Response Fund will have re-emphasising the importance of governments destroying rainforest habitats and homes. As the government is seeking to address in order for the ACCC has been put in place, as well as the event that a community is significantly or absolutely no impact on the funding provided by of all persuasions, at all levels of government, not former Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner to strengthen competition in the market and put a very important role for the Federal Court. We

PARLIAMENT RESPONDS TO AUSTRALIAN BUSHFIRES THIRD READING: AUSTRALIA The 2019-20 Australian bushfire season has will. We welcome the record 1. acknowledge the its deepest condolences to to ensure more Australians been long and severe. Temperature records are investment in renewable energy devastation across our their families; have access to quality sporting take that as a significant improvement further commented that “these fires are being smashed and the country is in a prolonged technologies and at the same nation occasioned by the 4. recognise the contribution facilities and encourage greater to the Bill, given that, since its supercharged by the climate crisis we drought. By February, the bushfires had caused time we welcome the fact bushfire season including of thousands of volunteer participation. Funding totalling original presentation, we have been are facing and are being fuelled by the the loss of 33 lives, burnt almost 19 million we are pursuing our climate the loss of 33 lives, the and career fire-fighters $100 million was awarded to complaining of overreach on the part of record drought we are experiencing. hectares, killed an estimated one billion animals policies while getting electricity destruction of over 3,000 and the dedication of 684 projects from December Ministers.” Firstly, Prime Minister Scott Morrison and destroyed over 3,000 homes. prices down as the ACCC noted homes, the unimaginable emergency services 2018 to April 2019 prior to the In relation to energy policy more must bear some responsibility for the Australia’s country fire services are staffed by today with a $65 reduction as a loss of so much wildlife personnel across Australia; federal election held on 18 May generally, Senator McAllister stated situation we are confronted with today. volunteers. Many of the volunteers take leave direct result of the policies we and the devastating impact 5. honour the contribution of 2019. When the Audit Report that “I want to be clear that this Bill in no He has not only continued to make the from work and pay for their own travel to and put in place to get power bills on regional economies 6,500 Australian Defence was released Senator McKenzie way substitutes for a proper, coherent climate crisis worse with Bills such as from the fire locations. During the height of the under control in this country. across Australia; Force personnel, including was the Deputy Leader of the national energy policy. We are in the this one before us tonight but also failed bushfires in December 2019, the Prime Minister, And we will do it without 2. extend its deepest 3,000 ADF reservists, and National Party and the Minister throes of the deepest energy crisis since to bring down global warming pollution Hon. Scott Morrison, MP, decided to take his destroying the economy or job sympathies to families who the work of Emergency for Agriculture. the mid-1970s. But, unlike that crisis, across the board. Secondly, the Prime family on holidays to Hawaii but not for long. Media destroying reckless targets.” have lost loved ones and Management Australia The decision to undertake which was caused by an external shock, Minister must take some responsibility focus and public disquiet questioned the Prime On 4 February, the first sitting to those who have suffered throughout the summer; the audit followed a request this crisis is the product of a profound for his refusal to heed the scientists and Minister’s judgement on taking leave at this time. day of 2020, the Senate and injuries or loss; 6. recognise the generosity from the Shadow Attorney- public policy failure. Households and fire officers who have been warning that When the Prime Minister was on leave in Hawaii, House of Representatives 3. place on record its of individuals, families, General, Hon. Mark Dreyfus, energy-using businesses are paying Australia is unprepared for extreme fires two volunteer firefighters, Mr Andrew O’Dwyer had condolence debates on gratitude for the service schools, churches and MP, following the presentation the price for this crisis. Power bills for exacerbated by the climate emergency.” and Mr Geoff Keaton were killed while they were the devastation and loss of of David Moresi, Geoffrey religious groups, service of a $127,373 sports grant by households and businesses are going Senator Malcolm Roberts fighting the Green Wattle Creek fire on Thursday 19 life arising from the bushfires. Keaton, Andrew O’Dwyer, clubs and businesses the Liberal candidate for the to go up and up, and it’s quite clear that (Pauline Hanson’s One Nation Party) December 2019. The Prime Minister moved the Samuel McPaul, Bill from across Australia and electorate of Mayo, Ms Georgina the market expects those bills to go up commented that the Bill “should really On 20 December 2019, the Prime Minister issued following condolence motion Slade, Mat Kavanagh, Ian elsewhere in the world Downer to the Yankalilla too. Wholesale prices are up across be the government’s ‘we failed’ Bill. the following statement: ‘Over the course of the which was seconded by the McBeth, Paul Hudson and during the evacuations and Bowling Club located in the seat the National Electricity Market - on It is proof of failed governance and it past week I have been taking leave with my family. Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Rick DeMorgan Jr, fire- following the fires; of Mayo. It is generally assumed average, by 158% since the Liberal vindicates all that we’ve been saying Our leave was brought forward due to the need to Anthony Albanese, MP: fighters who lost their lives 7. express its gratitude that the elected representative, energy crisis really took a grip in 2015.” about energy and climate for the last cancel our scheduled leave in January because of That the House: during the fires and extend to Australia’s friends, in this case the independent Senator McAllister concluded that “we three years, yet the government touts it our official government visit to India and Japan at allies and neighbours Member for Mayo, Ms Rebekha do support this Bill, but we will continue as a big stick to protect users. That is a the invitation of PMs Modi and Abe. I deeply regret who provided or offered Sharkie, MP, would present to hold the government to account for lie. It is another Liberal-Nationals facade. any offence caused to any of the many Australians support; a tax payer funded cheque its completely hopeless management of Energy prices are ridiculous, and it’s of affected by the terrible bushfires by my taking leave 8. recognise the unceasing for this grant program or any energy policy.” the government’s own making.” with family at this time. I have been receiving regular efforts and close other Commonwealth grant. On Senator Sarah Hanson-Young Senator Roberts stated that the updates on the bushfires disaster as well as the cooperation between state election day Ms Downer lost (Australian Greens) commented that “Liberal and National Party MPs know status of the search for and treatment of the victims and local governments, anyway. “right up-front, let me be very clear: that climate change is crap and rubbish. of the White Island tragedy. The Commonwealth’s demonstrating the strength The applications were the Australian Greens oppose this Bill It is really climate variability that is just responsibilities have been well managed by the of our Federation; assessed by Sports Australia because it won’t lower electricity prices going through cycles, yet this lie has Acting Prime Minister, Minister Littleproud and 9. commit itself to learning largely in accordance with and, in addition to not doing that, it will been perpetuated. This afternoon we Minister Payne. As noted, given the most recent any lessons from this fire the published program make global warming worse, as this heard Senator McKenzie telling us that tragic events, I will be returning to Sydney as soon season; and guidelines. However, the government will use the powers in this the Nats are committed to pushing as can be arranged.’ 10. pledge the full support of Auditor-General advised that Bill to keep coal-fired power stations this - committed to climate action. The When the Prime Minister returned, he faced the Australian Parliament “in parallel, the Minister’s operating for longer - and we know that sad thing is they are, and it’s destroying questions about the severity of the fires and to assist affected areas to Office had commenced its own the longer coal-fired power is produced, us. Look at them hanging their heads in whether Australia could be doing more to reduce recover and rebuild. assessment process to identify the harder and longer it’s going to be for shame.” greenhouse gas emissions. The Prime Minister A similar motion was moved which applications should be us to get global warming under control.” Senator Roberts concluded that on 22 December 2019 stated in relation to climate and debated in the Senate. awarded funding. The Minister’s In relation to bushfires, Senator “the Liberals say they’re working on change that “there is no argument, in my view and Office drew upon considerations Hanson-Young stated “as I stand here climate change, while they’re trying to the government’s view, and any government in the Auditor-General issues other than those identified in tonight, I do so in the midst of what do as little as possible, yet still people country, about the links between broader issues scathing report of Minister the program guidelines, such we know is a horrific scene unfolding pay the high prices. Industry pays the of global climate change and weather events Bridget McKenzie as the location of projects, and across the country, with bushfires price. Families pay with unemployment. around the world but I’m sure people would equally The Auditor-General has issued also applied considerations burning across Western Australia, New Farmers pay by going out of business. acknowledge the direct connection to any single a scathing audit report on the that were inconsistent with the South Wales and Queensland, and Labor senators say they’re working on fire event is not a credible suggestion to make role of the then Liberal Minister published guidelines. It was now, just in the last few hours, there it, yet people smashed them for it five that link. We must take action on climate change for Sport, Senator Hon. Bridget this assessment process that have been a number of very serious months ago.” and we are taking action on climate change. At McKenzie in the selection and predominantly informed the warnings in my home state of South the last election I said we would, I said we would distribution of sport grants. The Minister’s funding decisions, Australia.” Senator Hanson-Young meet and beat our Kyoto targets, I said we would Community Sport Infrastructure rather than Sport Australia’s meet our Paris commitments in a canter and we Grant Program objectives are process. This resulted in the

assessment advice to the members that were to be other parties or independent the Australian cricket team’s ball Senator McKenzie resigned Minister being inconsistent ‘targeted’ by the Coalition at members that were to be tampering disgrace. Ms Steggal her Cabinet level Ministry and as with the approved program the 2019 Election. Applications ‘targeted’ by the Coalition at stated that Senator McKenzie the deputy leader of the National guidelines.” from projects located in the 2019 Election. Applications is “completely lost if she doesn’t Party. Senator McKenzie stated THIRD READING: NEW ZEALAND In relation to the legal status those electorates were more from projects located in think she needs to acknowledge that “I have always taken my The End of Life Choice Bill already disadvantages Māori.” Similarly, Mrs of the Minister’s involvement, successful in being awarded those electorates were more that there’s something wrong role as a Minister of the Crown The End of Life Choice Bill, legalising assisted Anahila Kanongata’a-Suisuiki, MP (Labour) said the Auditor-General stated funding than if funding was successful in being awarded with cheating kids and very seriously and I understand dying for terminally ill adults with fewer than six the Tongan community that she represents felt “the that “a significant shortcoming allocated on the basis of merit funding than if funding was community sports clubs…I just that the community expects months to live, passed its Third Reading in the premature ending of human life at the hand of others was that, while the program assessed against the published allocated on the basis of merit think it’s disgusting.” Parliamentarians to abide by the New Zealand Parliament on 13 November 2019. is unethical and abandoning the values of respecting guidelines identified that program guidelines.” assessed against the published Senator McKenzie responded highest standards. I accept the Treated as a conscience issue, the Bill passed and protecting human life.” the Minister for Sport would In relation to bias, the Auditor- program guidelines.” that no rules were broken, all Prime Minister and Cabinet report, with 69 votes to 51; however, the law change This belief was not shared by all, however. approve CSIG funding, there General stated that “there was The release of the audit report successful applicants were in relation to my previous role as will not come into force unless approved by the Fellow Labour Member, Hon. Willie Jackson, are no records evidencing evidence of distribution bias sparked outrage and claims of eligible and therefore she a Sports Minister. I maintain that New Zealand public in a referendum to be held MP noted that the most important Māori tikanga that the Minister was advised in the award of grant funding. blatant pork barrelling. Leader will not be resigning. But the at no time did my membership of alongside the 2020 general election. [custom] was mana [prestige] and that “euthanasia of the legal basis on which Overall statistics indicate of Opposition Business in the revelations just kept getting shooting sports clubs influence my The Bill divided MPs on moral, religious, and was dying with dignity”, a view he said was held by the Minister could undertake that the award of funding was House of Representatives, worse for Senator McKenzie. It decision making, nor did I receive cultural grounds, with some Members of Parliament leaders within his community. an approval role, and it is not consistent with the population Hon. Tony Burke, MP, said was later revealed that Senator any personal gain. However, I fearful that the legislation would set a dangerous Concern was also raised that the requirement evident to the ANAO what the of eligible applications received “you can’t get a report like that McKenzie awarded a grant acknowledge that my failure precedent in New Zealand. Concern was raised for a referendum would do no more than shift legal authority was.” by state/territory, but was not and remain a Minister in the of $36,000 to the Wangaratta to declare my memberships in that the Bill could make vulnerable persons, responsibility from elected representatives to The Auditor-General consistent with the assessed Commonwealth.” Clay Shooting Club without a timely manner constituted a including the elderly and those with disabilities, feel the New Zealand public. However, Hon. Tracey concluded that “the award of merit of applications. The Independent Member, Ms declaring that she was a breach of the Prime Minister’s pressured into terminating their life prematurely. Martin, MP (New Zealand First) countered this funding reflected the approach award of funding reflected the Zali Steggal, MP, joined the member of the club. Ministerial standards. Elected Hon. Maggie Barry, MP (National) argued: “The argument, saying: “We’ve had our two years. We’ve documented by the Minister’s approach documented by the chorus of those calling for The Prime Minister, Hon. representatives are responsible so-called right to die for some would all too easily had our hours and hours and hours of debate Office of focusing on ‘marginal’ Minister’s Office of focusing Senator McKenzie to resign. Scott Morrison, MP, under for public expenditure and take become a duty to die for others, and a law change and this is where we are. We trust them to put us electorates held by the Coalition on ‘marginal’ electorates Ms Steggal, a former Olympic intense and ongoing media advice, not direction, from the would normalise this.” here; we should trust them with their own futures, as well as those electorates held held by the Coalition as well skier, compared the Morrison’s scrutiny of Senator McKenzie’s public service and others.” Moreover, Hon. Aupito William Sio, MP however it lies.” by other parties or independent as those electorates held by Government grants scandal to conduct referred the Auditor- The Leader of the Opposition, (Labour) expressed his concern about the welfare General’s report to the Hon. Anthony Alabanese, MP, of medical practitioners and care facilities involved Referendums Framework Bill Secretary of Prime Minister and was highly critical of the report in the process. Dr Shane Reti, MP (National) The Referendums Framework Bill, a Government Cabinet, Mr Phil Gaetjens, to prepared by Mr Gaetjens who cautioned that the law change would “change the Bill, allows for referendums on cannabis regulation consider any matters there that was previously Mr Morrison’s very fabric of the doctor-patient relationship.” and legalisation and the End of Life Choice Act to were relevant to the statement chief-of-staff. Mr Albanese stated Under the legislation, a request for assisted be held alongside the 2020 general election. The of Ministerial standards. The that Mr Gaetjens report said “that dying may be made only by persons over the age of Minister in charge of the Bill, Hon. Andrew Little, Prime Minister stated that “I there was nothing to see here with 18 and with a terminal illness that two independent MP (Labour) explained that the legislation was took the Auditor-General’s regard to the sports rorts saga. medical practitioners have judged likely to end their important in order to provide a framework that “has report very seriously and we are Bridget McKenzie, of course, has life within six months. Medical practitioners are integrity, is robust, and allows those referendums to acting on the recommendations been thrown under the bus for prohibited from initiating discussions with patients take place under a set of rules that most voters will of that report.” In relation to what relative to this $100 million around assisted dying; the terminally ill are able to recognise.” Senator McKenzie’s grant to scandal is just one small element change their mind at any point; and written consent The Bill allows for the referendums to be held the Wangaratta Shooting Club, of it.” Mr Albanese asserted or advanced directive requests are not permitted. using the same voting places and staff as for the the Prime Minister also referred that the Prime Minister’s Office “It is now explicit that nobody can become general election, and for the referendum results that matter to the Secretary. had a role in the scandal noting eligible for assisted dying simply due to age, to be counted and distributed after the election On 2 February 2020, the that “it is the case that Bridget disability, or a purely psychological condition”, the results. It provides for an appeal mechanism and Prime Minister received the McKenzie is the only sports player Member in charge of the Bill, Mr David Seymour, expires after the 2020 election. confidential report of the to ever be sacked for following MP (Leader - ACT) explained. Additional Many Opposition MPs expressed concern Secretary of Prime Minister the instructions of her coach. It’s protections were added during the Committee about the speed with which the Bill passed through and Cabinet. The Secretary very clear that the Prime Minister’s of the Whole House, including the introduction the House. It was argued that the referendums found that Senator McKenzie office was involved in this. It’s of requirements pertaining to the qualifications could distort the election outcome, and that was in breach of the Ministerial clear that there was rorting. And of participating medical practitioners and there had been lack of parliamentary oversight standards for failing to that was found by the independent protections for conscientious objectors, with health over the formulation of the question in respect declare her membership of an Auditor-General. And for the practitioners now able to opt out of participating in of the cannabis referendum. Mr Matt King, MP organisation which she gave a Prime Minister to just dismiss the process. (National) labelled the Bill “undemocratic” and $36,000 grant to. It is notable, the independent report of the Several Members of Parliament expressed “unconstitutional”, while Hon. Dr Nick Smith, MP however, that the Secretary Auditor-General because he has concern that the Bill does not take into (National) argued that it would found no bias in the grants something from his former chief- “[take] the power consideration non-European cultures. Mr Adrian program which was contrary of-staff, which conveniently lets away from Parliament and [give] to the Government Rurawhe, MP (Labour) stated that the Bill would to the findings of the Auditor- everyone else off the hook, means the decision about however many referendum they “disadvantage Māori further in a system which General. that there needs to be a full and want to hold, on whatever topics they want to hold, proper inquiry into this sorry saga.”

actually changing the behaviour that led to the lack of safety in the first place … this is a good THIRD READING: NEW ZEALAND Bill. It addresses a real risk that many countries are currently facing.” Kēnana / Rua Kēnana Pardon Bill passed its the ongoing suffering of the people of Rua, and Opposition MPs discussed the age Third Reading on 18 December 2019 with achieves the Crown’s objectives to promote restriction and the six-year limit on control unanimous support in the House. reconciliation in the wake of historical wrongs.” orders. Mr Simon O’Connor, MP (National) Rua Kēnana was a prophet who established MPs reflected on the Crown’s past wrongs explained: “Members in this House know very a community at Maungapōhatu in the Urewera and their lasting impact on the Maungapōhatu well that there are people who are actively mountains in New Zealand’s North Island. Rua community. Ms Harete Hipango, MP engaged, or have been actively engaged, in had been convicted on charges of selling alcohol (National), explained: “The Maungapōhatu terrorist activities who are younger than 18. without a licence in 1911 and had served invasion and the Crown’s treatment of Rua These control orders will not apply to them. We time in prison. In 1916, Rua was summoned was unreasonable. It was repugnant; it was know that these control orders can only last six to appear before a magistrate on the earlier reprehensible. The convictions have caused years - six years, as if somehow, magically, we’re charges, but believed he had already served his severe prejudice and burden to you, his uri going to be able to turn every returning terrorist sentence. Seventy armed police were sent to (descendants).” away from something that has completely Maungapōhatu to arrest him. During the arrest, Mr Rino Tirikatene, MP (Labour) stated: defined their lives in six years.” Rua’s son Toko Rua and another man, Te Maipi, “Terrible wrongs were committed against Rua Mr Chris Penk, MP (National) also felt that were killed, and others wounded. Thirty-one Kēnana: trumped-up charges culminating the process had been rushed: “we felt on this Maungapōhatu men were arrested and held for in invasions into Maungapōhatu, and side of the House that the process being rather up to three days. Rua was convicted of ‘moral imprisonment. The impacts of that on the Iharaira rushed at Select Committee has probably been resistance’ and served 18 months in prison. faith and the whānau (family) of Maungapōhatu a contributor to the fact that the substance of the The Bill consists of Crown acknowledgments, have been long lasting, but it ends today. It ends Bill, the final result, is such that we don’t think it an apology, and a pardon to restore the today with the passage of this Bill.” can be supported.” character, mana (prestige), and reputation of Others commented that the Bill marked the The Bill was supported by Labour, New Rua Kēnana, his descendants, and followers beginning of the reconciliation process. Ms Zealand First, and the Green Party, and passed of his Iharaira faith. The Minister for Māori Marama Davidson, MP (Co-Leader - Green) with 63 votes to 56. It received Royal assent on Development, Hon. Nanaia Mahuta, MP commented: “I’m really, really clear that this Bill 19 December 2019. (Labour) set out the aims of the Bill, stating that is only the start - he tīmatanga noa iho (it is just and whatever wording they wish to have.” Terrorism Suppression (Control being waged in Syria. It comes after decades the Bill would: “provide a statutory pardon for Rua, a start), albeit a long overdue one … I think the Mr Chris Penk, MP (National) argued Orders) Bill of terrorism on the rise that includes the likes of Te Pire kia Unuhia te Hara kai Runga i a as well as acknowledgments and an apology kōrero (discussion) that must stay on the table that the next Parliament, the 53rd Parliament, The Terrorism Suppression (Control Orders) Bill, ISIS, but it also now increasingly includes the Rua Kēnana / Rua Kēnana Pardon Bill from the Crown for him, his followers, and his is one that asks: what will it take to truly restore would be expected to enact a law change a Government Bill, passed its Third Reading on rise of white nationalist terrorism.” Te Pire kia Unuhia te Hara kai Runga i a Rua descendants … The Bill is designed to alleviate justice, to hohou te rongo (to make peace)?” that the current Parliament “[has not] had the 12 December 2019. The Bill introduces a civil The National Opposition proposed Mr Matt King, MP (National) said: “It’s opportunity to thrash … out in the way that we regime of control orders to manage and monitor amendments, including giving police the ability to a statutory pardon and apology, and I hope do in parliamentary debates … and certainly people returning to, or who have arrived in, New detain a person for up to 72 hours, to renew the it’ll go a long way to healing the wounds that through the creature of Parliament that is Select Zealand after having engaged in terrorism- control orders beyond six years, and to include were caused way back then. It’s a part of New Committees.” related activities overseas. young people aged 14 to 18 in the control order Zealand, but we have to own up to it and we Hon. Clare Curran, MP (Labour) Justice Minister, Hon. Andrew Little, MP regime. However, the amendments did not gain have to acknowledge that it happened, and this maintained, however, that the Bill was about (Labour) outlined the aims of the Bill, saying: sufficient support, and Opposition MPs argued agreement and pardon is about moving towards “having a really good set of mechanisms in place “We know that the Terrorism Suppression Act that the Bill did not go far enough to protect New reconciliation.” for people to make sure that we’re getting it right from the late 2000s - 2007-08 - is a piece of Zealanders as a result. MPs from across the House paid tribute to as to how those questions can be asked so that legislation that had huge gaps in it … and this Hon. Mark Mitchell, MP (National) argued Rua’s descendants, who were instrumental in the public can be reassured that there will be Government has taken up the task of totally that this was due to influence from the Greens: bringing the Bill to Parliament. Ms Louisa Wall, minimal confusion.” reviewing that piece of legislation. In the course “The Minister - the Labour Minister of Justice - MP (Labour) stated: “I want to acknowledge Ms Golriz Ghahraman, MP (Green) added: of that review, it’s become apparent that we rolled over and he gave every concession and that this Bill has happened because of you, the “it [would be] inaccurate were the public to need to have mechanisms such as these control every amendment and every change that the people from Te Urewera. We wouldn’t have done assume that there has been no opportunity for all orders to alleviate the risk that people who have Green Party wanted, bearing in mind that the it ourselves.” Mr Dan Bidois, MP (National) parties in this House to engage with this subject participated in events abroad, in conflict zones, Green Party don’t support Bills like this. The added: “This is a proud day for the descendants matter”, noting that there was the opportunity would pose to New Zealanders.” focus shifted - I can tell you now - from protecting of Rua Kēnana. You can be proud of his legacy for the Bill to go before a Parliamentary Select Green MP Ms Golriz Ghahraman gave our people in New Zealand to protecting the but also his contribution to our country and to Committee. the context for the Bill: “This law, it has to be rights of a returning terrorist.” your community as well.” The Bill passed its Third Reading on 3 noticed, comes to this House in the context Ms Priyanca Radhakrishnan, MP (Labour) The passage of the Bill was marked with December 2019 with 64 votes to 56. It received of New Zealand’s worst act of terror in living countered: “… all the Opposition wanted to a waiata (song) and haka (ceremonial dance) Royal assent on 6 December 2019. memory, which happened on 15 March at the do was to make it more punitive and harsher, performed by Rua’s descendants in the gallery mosques in Christchurch. It comes to us in because for some reason they think that equates of the New Zealand Parliament. The Bill the context of the now eight-year bloody war to safety - it does not. What equates to safety is received Royal assent on 21 December 2019.

challenges we have. The retreat of Parliament from persons seeks to PARLIAMENT OF UGANDA SET TO AMEND CONSTITUTION AND FOUR is over, but the conversation qualified to be elected amend the continues,” Hon. Betty Aol Ocan, Members of Parliament but Parliamentary LAWS AHEAD OF 2021 GENERAL ELECTIONS MP said, adding that “it’s our Bill, are not elected Members of Elections The Uganda Parliament is set government party, the National Ocan, MP were joined by party our colleagues in government; so we have to popularize it. All Parliament. Act, 2005 to to amend the Constitution Resistance Movement (NRM) leaders and representatives we must not seen to target parties should participate in it.” • The Bill seeks to introduce provide for the and a host of electoral laws during his earlier terms in from UPC, DP, FDC and Justice the President as this creates a Speaker’s Panel in participation of ahead of the general elections the House. He successfully Forum (Opposition parties with immediate opposition against Provisions of the Parliament consisting of independent scheduled for early 2021. navigated several challenges representation in Parliament) to the entire Bill,” he said. Constitution (Amendment) three Members nominated candidates The Constitution including failing to get the meet and lay strategies on how However, Hon. Medard Bill, 2019: by the Speaker from among in elections; (Amendment) Bill, 2019 will required certificate of financial to push the privately sponsored Sseggona also said that • The Bill proposes that Members of Parliament. to provide for provide the second opportunity implications from the Ministry Bill, which seeks to make all proposals would be the Chairperson, Deputy Members on this panel will restrictions on for Parliament to amend the of Finance, to have the Bill changes in a host of areas in considered at a later stage Chairperson and members preside over sittings of the candidates’ Constitution through a Private gazetted in December 2019 the Constitution. and wide consultations would of the Electoral Commission, House in the absence of the sources Hon. Wilfred Niwagaba, MP Members Bill in three years. and presented for its First Then, the Shadow Minister be held among parties and the body charged with Speaker or Deputy Speaker. of funding This Bill which seeks to abolish Reading in Parliament. of Constitutional Affairs, Hon. parliamentary party caucuses. organising and managing • The Bill also seeks to provide to finance Administrators; to provide representation of the army in Following its First Reading, Medard Sseggona, said that He said that the amendment elections in the country, be for the involvement of the elections; to require the for the appointment of Parliament, repeal the office it was then referred to the although a Bill seeking to to prohibit the appointment appointed by the President, Parliamentary Commission Electoral Commission to Assistant Returning Officers of Prime Minister, reinstate House Committee on Legal amend the Constitution needs of Ministers from among acting on the advice in the appointment of the designate restricted areas by the Commission; to presidential term limits and and Parliamentary Affairs for to be comprehensive and Members of Parliament would of the Judicial Service Clerk to Parliament; the and to provide for a special require the Commission prohibit the appointment further scrutiny. The Committee, moved after a constitutional liberate the Legislature from the Commission, which shall involvement of the Judicial procedure for voting in to publish in the Gazette, of Ministers from among chaired by an Independent MP, review process, it should not Executive and to guarantee the be required to advertise the Service Commission in the restricted areas. places at which voters’ Members of Parliament, has scheduled countrywide have too many controversial independence of the institution. positions to the public. appointment of members of • The Local Governments registers and polling was moved by the Shadow consultations, before preparing issues that would lead The Leader of the Opposition, • It also provides that the the Electoral Commission; (Amendment) Bill, 2019 stations are to be displayed and to align the Electoral Attorney-General, Hon. and submitting its report in time colleagues in Parliament to Hon. Betty Aol Ocan, MP, said Chairperson shall be a the qualification of the seeks to: amend the Local Commission Act with the Wilfred Niwagaba, the MP for proceeding to the debate, reject it. He advised colleagues the Bill was not targeting the person qualified to be a Electoral Commission Governments Act, Cap. 243 representing Ndorwa County Second and Third Reading of to stick to areas where they sitting President but rather judge of the High Court and Chairperson and the to provide for the creation Constitution as amended East in Kabale district (in South the Bill. have chance of getting the to improve democracy and have at least three years grounds for disqualification of local government and by the Constitution Western part of the country). In December 2019, support of a large number of governance in the country. “This experience in electoral of members of the Electoral magistrate units at least (Amendment) Act, 2018. Niwagaba, an Independent Opposition legislators led by Members, including those on is about how to improve on matters, governance or Commission. two years before the due MP, formerly represented the Leader of Opposition in the government side. “We must governance in our country, and public administration. It date for the next general The Electoral Reform the constituency on the Parliament, Hon. Betty Aol be strategic and different from this Bill will help solve several prohibits persons from The other Bills before elections; to provide for the Committee, which shall be being appointed members Parliament (Committee or demarcation of electoral constituted by the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, plenary) which are due for areas; to prescribe the of the Electoral Commission if they have been convicted consideration ahead of next manner of conducting six months after a general by a competent court of an year’s general election are: campaigns; to bar persons election, shall be charged offence whose sentence • The Presidential Elections not ordinarily resident in a with: studying electoral and of imprisonment is three (Amendment) Bill, 2019; local government area from other laws relating to matters years or more; is bankrupt; which seeks to amend the contesting for councilor and processes of elections of unsound mind, been Presidential Elections Act, for that area; to provide in in liaison with Uganda involved in elective politics 2005 to prescribe the period for the procedure for Law Reform Commission; or a political party or for holding presidential commencement of polls at synthesising various reforms organisation’s leadership or elections; to prescribe the each polling station and to proposed by political parties, been convicted of an offence time for campaigns; to align the Local Governments election observers and involving dishonesty or provide for the participation Act with the provisions monitors, civil society and other moral turpitude. of independent candidates of the Constitution as stakeholders or arising from • It also proposes that the in elections; to provide for amended by the Constitution court decisions; consulting Deputy President (one of the restrictions on candidates’ (Amendment) Act, 2018. the relevant stakeholders new positions the Bill seeks sources of funding to • The Electoral Commission on the proposed electoral to introduce), Ministers, finance elections; to (Amendment) Bill, 2019; reforms; recommending to the the Attorney-General and provide for the electronic seeks to amend the Minister responsible for justice, Deputy Attorney-General transmission of results and Electoral Commission Act concrete proposals for electoral be ex-officio members of to align the Presidential to establish the Electoral reforms and for strengthening the House without a right to Elections Act, 2005 with the Reform Committee; the electoral system. vote on any issue requiring Constitution as amended to provide for the use These Bills are at different a vote in Parliament. It also by the Constitution of technology in the stages of consideration by says that Cabinet Ministers (Amendment) Act, 2018. management of elections; the Committee/plenary of the shall be appointed by the • The Parliamentary Elections to re-designate Registrars House in the Parliament of President with the approval (Amendment) Bill, 2019 as District Election Uganda. Images: Parliament of Uganda/CPA Uganda Branch. of Uganda/CPA Images: Parliament ;

Government will provide a UK PARLIAMENT PASSES EU WITHDRAWAL AGREEMENT statement of policy within two months of the withdrawal FOLLOWING GENERAL ELECTION agreement Bill’s passage into law.” On 29 October 2019, the UK The Bill passed all stages in the the Second Reading debate Mark Francois, MP (Con), Despite these assurances, the Prime Minister, Rt Hon. Boris House of Commons on that day taking place on 20 December which would have provided House divided on Lord Dubs’ Johnson, MP (Con) introduced and all stages in the House of 2019 before the Christmas for “The Speaker of the amendment and it was carried the Early Parliamentary Lords the following day without recess. It passed Second House of Commons and the by 300 votes to 220. General Election Bill to provide amendment. The UK Parliament Reading by 358 to 234 votes. Corporate Officer of the House The House of Lords sent five for an election to be held was dissolved on 6 November The Committee and remaining of Commons … [to] make amendments to the WAB back on 12 December 2019. This 2019. This concluded one of the stages took place between arrangements for [the United to the House of Commons on followed three attempts by the shortest parliamentary sessions 7 and 9 January 2020 in the Kingdom’s Withdrawal from the 21 January 2020. The House Government in September and in over 70 years, lasting just House of Commons. European Union] to be marked of Commons considered the October 2019 to mandate a 19 sitting days. By contrast, Over 120 amendments were by the sounding of the hourly House of Lords amendments General Election by tabling a the previous 2017-19 session tabled for Committee stage. chimes including eleven strikes on 22 January 2020 and motion under the Fixed-term was the longest parliamentary The House of Commons of the principal bell (Big Ben).” rejected all five with reasons. Parliaments Act, 2011. The session (by sitting days) since divided on amendments However, the amendment The House of Lords did not Act requires two-thirds of MPs the 17th century. regarding the right to was not selected by the (then insist on their amendments. to vote in favour of an early The UK electorate went to the permanent residence for temporary) Chairman of Ways Royal Assent was notified to general election before the polls on Thursday 12 December EU nationals [NC05], UK-EU and Means, Rt Hon. Sir Roger both Houses on 23 January next scheduled polling day 2019. The Conservative Party negotiation objectives on Gale, MP (Con). Sir Roger 2020, as the Bill became law. under the Act. The Government were returned with a majority workers’ rights protection Gale was a temporary Deputy The European Parliament failed to secure this two-thirds of 80 seats, the largest [NC2], and family reunification Speaker as the election for the ratified the agreement on majority on all three occasions. Government majority since provisions for unaccompanied role had not yet taken place. 29 January 2020 and the UK The Prime Minister introduced the 2001 election, which gave child refugees [amt. 4]. The The unamended Bill passed withdrew from the EU at 11pm the Early Parliamentary General Rt Hon. Tony Blair (Lab) his Democratic Unionist Party also its Third Reading on 9 January (GMT) on 31 January 2020 after Election Bill following the second term. It is the largest tabled amendments regarding 2020 by 330 votes to 231. This 47 years of membership. Government’s defeat on its Conservative majority since Northern Ireland’s place in was in contrast to the three programme motion for the the 1987 general election. The a future UK internal market, Government defeats at various Upcoming Brexit-related European Union (Withdrawal Conservatives had a net gain which was divided on [NC55]. stages and iterations of the Bills Agreement) Bill in October of 48 seats with 44% of the The Government defeated Withdrawal Agreement Bill in Although the UK has formally 2019 and the subsequent popular vote. The Opposition these amendments with the last Parliament. withdrawn from the EU, Bills granting by the European Labour Party lost 60 seats with majorities between 75 and 96. which provide for a transition Council of the request made a 32% vote share, an 8% fall One amendment which House of Lords amendments from EU membership in several by the Prime Minister to extend from the 2017 general election. attracted media attention The Bill had its Second Reading policy areas will continue to the negotiating period to 31 Outside 10 Downing Street on was that tabled by Rt Hon. and Committee stage in the dominate the Parliamentary January 2020. 13 December 2019, following timetable before the end of the The request was mandated his appointment as UK Prime House of Lords between 13 WAB, which amends section Baroness Williams of ‘implementation period’. The by the European Union Minister by Her Majesty Queen and 17 January 2020. A total of 17 of the European Union Trafford (Con), House of implementation period, which (Withdrawal) (No. 2) Act, Elizabeth II, Rt Hon. Boris 70 amendments were tabled (Withdrawal) Act 2018 (family Lords Minister of State for the began on 31 January 2020 2019 which the Government Johnson, MP said: “MPs will at Committee stage and 29 at unity for those seeking asylum Home Office, responded by and runs until 31 December opposed (see UK parliamentary arrive at Westminster to form Report Stage. Unlike the House or other protection in Europe). telling the House: “Clause 37 2020, provides time (although report in The Parliamentarian a new Parliament … and yes, of Commons, the House of Speaking for his amendment concerns only the removal of whether enough time is 2019, Issue Four). After having they will have an overwhelming Lords remains a hung chamber at Report stage, Lord Dubs the statutory duty to negotiate disputed) for the UK and EU to voted to oppose the motions mandate, from this election, with no government majority. said: “In 2018, I moved an an agreement on family reunion negotiate a future framework for an early general election, to get Brexit done and we will There were five divisions at amendment, to [the European for unaccompanied children … for their relationship, and for the the Leader of the Opposition, honour that mandate by 31 Report Stage, all resulting in Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018], We are restoring the traditional UK to implement the necessary Rt Hon. Jeremy Corbyn, January.” Government defeats. to provide that… family reunion division of competences legislation to transition from MP (Lab) told the House of These amendments touched should be carried through in the between Parliament and being a member state of the Commons during the Second European Union (Withdrawal upon some of the issues negotiations for when we leave Government when it comes EU. Iterations of some of these Reading debate of the Bill: “I Agreement) Bill which were voted on in the the EU… that became part of to negotiations, and similar Bills were introduced in the have said consistently, when The State Opening of the UK Commons. Notably, Lord the Bill, was then endorsed by changes have been made to last Parliament under Prime no deal is off the table we will Parliament was held on 19 Oates’ (Lib Dem) amendment the Government and became negotiating obligations across Minister, Rt Hon. Theresa back an election. Today … no December 2019. A revised relating to residence rights part of the 2018 Act... It is that the Bill. Furthermore … we May, MP. These included the deal is officially off the table, European Union (Withdrawal for EU citizens passed by provision which the Government have gone beyond the original Agriculture, Environment and so this country can vote for the Agreement) Bill (“the WAB”) 269 votes to 229. Lord Dubs are seeking to delete in this amendment by the noble Lord, Fisheries Bills. Government that it deserves.” was introduced to the House of (Lab) tabled an amendment Bill, and my wish is to retain the Lord Dubs, and provided a Commons the same day, with to leave out clause 37 of the 2018 Act as it stood.” statutory guarantee that the

TH that the Parliament once 7 PRESIDENT OF SRI LANKA CEREMONIALLY OPENS again becomes an institution winning the respect of the PARLIAMENT - ‘VISIONS OF PROSPERITY AND SPLENDOUR’ people lies with the Members who are in this House. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa Excerpts of the address by His • The people who elected me the people. It is only then that • There is a social, economic inaugurated the fourth session Excellency President Gotabaya to office desired a profound the sovereignty of the people and political crisis in the of the eighth Parliament of Rajapaksa at the ceremonial change in the political will be safeguarded. country today. Even after Sri Lanka on Friday 3 January opening of the Parliament of Sri culture of this country. They • In accordance with our 70 years of Independence, 2020, inviting all to join hands to Lanka, Sri Jayewardenepura - rejected political agendas Constitution, I pledge that we cannot be satisfied with develop the country, establish Kotte, 3 January 2020: founded on race. The during my term of office, the country’s development. peace and harmony without • Honourable Speaker, I now majority of the people proved I will always defend the We all have a responsibility neglecting national security, take this opportunity to table that it is no longer possible unitary status of our country, to change this situation. We and reject the role played by the ‘Visions of Prosperity and for anyone to manipulate and protect and nurture must be prepared to make minorities as kingmakers. Splendour’ Policy Statement. and control the politics of the Buddha Sasana whilst the sacrifices required for Giving a taste of what awaits • The people of this country this country by playing the safeguarding the right of all this. Sri Lanka in the next five years, gave me a clear mandate role of king maker. citizens to practice a religion • The primary responsibility President Gotabaya Rajapaksa at the Presidential election • I invite the politicians of their choice. of a people’s representative outlined the core policies held on 16 November 2019. concerned to understand • This Parliament should once is service to the people. of his Government, centring That mandate was granted this reality. I call upon all to again become an exemplary We should all remember on significant changes to because of the trust the join together in the national institution where the real that the offices we hold develop Sri Lanka’s economy, people had in me. I, together undertaking to develop issues of the people are are not privileges, but including revamping the public with my Government, stand this country, and to reject discussed, where matters responsibilities. sector, infusing technology committed to honour the the politics based on petty concerned with national • In accordance with that in agriculture, and plans to trust of the people and agendas that have sown policy are subjected to program, we have already and indicators to gauge Left: The President of Sri Lanka, His Excellency Gotabaya improve investment and reduce implement the programme division in our society in the debate, and where the taken several steps including whether the needs of the people Rajapaksa arrives for the opening of the fourth session of the poverty. of developing a prosperous past. responsibilities of the the easing of taxes that are truly being met and whether eight Parliament of Sri Lanka and is welcolmed by the Speaker nation that we promised to • We must always respect the legislature are duly fulfilled. were unduly burdening the they are happy. It is no longer of Parliament, Hon. Karu Jayasuriya and parliamentary officials., them. aspirations of the majority of The responsibility of ensuring public, introducing a high necessary to wait for elections degree of transparency and to find out how people feel efficiency to the Government about the work program of the administration, and curtailing Government,” he said. government becomes aware of to regional neighbouring unnecessary Government “We need everyone’s support our vision and aims. That will countries. To encourage such expenditure. for our efforts to reduce the enable them to perform their investors, we must be prepared cost of living of the people. The duties more productively.” to swiftly provide all the facilities During the speech, the corporate sector must ensure He backed implementing a they require within Sri Lanka.” President touched on the that some percentage of the special program to combat Continued improvement of importance of restoring the benefits of the tax concessions corruption and fraud. He infrastructure would also be respect of Parliament and the recently provided to them are also said legal action must necessary and will remain long political history of his passed on to the public as be taken promptly against a focus of the Government, family. President Rajapaksa well. Accordingly, we expect all who engage in corrupt the President said. It will be devoted the lion’s share of a reduction in the price of all practices, irrespective of their broadened to include train his speech to discuss the goods and services on which status. “Today, most countries travel and improve urbanization economic challenges before Sri taxes have been reduced.” have employed technology issues, such as traffic.“For Lanka and the need to focus on The President emphasised as a means of enhancing economic development to achieving greater expectations that the main aim of the the efficiency of the State occur, it is important that we of the public. stimulus package is to sector. Through this, it will accelerate improvements to He pointed out that the first ensure economic stability also be possible to provide the road network, including the steps to turning around Sri for all citizens, provide equal equal opportunities for all. expressways, so that travel from Lanka’s economy has already opportunities for citizens, to As such, we will pay special any one part of the country to been taken with the stimulus establish a clean and efficient attention to increasing the use another in a few hours becomes package, loan moratorium State sector that is committed of technology in government possible. The development of and restrictions on imports of to public service, and to institutions. If we work the train service is an integral spices, but insisted that much protect and empower local according to a proper plan, part of this program. We more needs to be done. entrepreneurs. “In order to we will be able to encourage can also help alleviate the “We must ensure that the successfully establish a people- international businesses to grave problem of heavy road benefits of development reach centric economy, it is important locate themselves in Sri Lanka congestion through an efficient every group of people. We must that every official from the and supply goods and services and comfortable train service.” employ modern methodologies highest to the lowest level of Images copyright: Sri Lanka Parliament/U. G. Nuwan Duminda. Images copyright: Sri Lanka Parliament/U.

THIRD READING: SRI LANKA Prevention of Offences Relating to Sports Act, No. 24 of 2019 The Bill which sought to prevent offences such as match-fixing, corruption, illegal manipulation and illegal betting in sports, was presented in the Parliament of Sri Lanka by Hon. Harin Fernando, MP, Minister of Telecommunication, Foreign Employment

Image copyright: Sri Lanka Parliament/U. G. Nuwan Duminda. Image copyright: Sri Lanka Parliament/U. and Sports on 8 October 2019. The Second Reading of the Bill took place on 11 November 2019 and was approved unanimously by the Parliament without any amendments. Hon. Harin Fernando, MP, who introduced the Bill, stated that this is a very important piece of legislation for the country as it paves way for transparency in all sports activities. Sri Lanka is a country that has a rich history of sports, with many outstanding sports figures who won Olympic medals and several medals at international level. When the Sri Lanka cricket team became President Rajapaksa was also adamant income from the current $4060 by 2025. The the world champions of cricket, among that stronger policies are needed to President also called for constitutional reform other sports, the country occupied a exceeding one hundred million rupees or to retrospective effect. He further stated that if the Hon. Bimal Rathnayake, MP stated support agriculture, pointing out a third which he said is essential to safeguard the prominent place in the field of sports. imprisonment for a period not exceeding ten International Cricket Council had laws relating that his party, Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna, of the country’s population is engaged in security, sovereignty, stability and integrity However, match-fixing, corruption, unlawful years or to both. All offences under this Act to match-fixing then those who were involved supported the Bill. He pointed out that the agriculture, plantation industries, and the of the country. “The success of a democracy directions and the state of malpractices shall be investigated, tried or otherwise dealt in match-fixing and corrupt activities in cricket Cricket Board has been involved in several fisheries sector, and the living standards rests upon its Constitution. The 1978 have posed a great threat to the state of with in accordance with the provisions of the would have been brought before the law and malpractices and corruption cases in the last of people employed must be raised. He Constitution, which has since been amended sport in Sri Lanka. Therefore, it became Code of Criminal Procedure Act. banned for their lifetime from the sport. 20 to 25 years, especially after winning the recommended that new technology- on 19 occasions, has given rise to many essential to introduce a law to combat In addition to the above, any person who Hon. I. Charles Nirmalanathan, MP world cup in 1996, as per the findings of the based approaches that can develop these problems at the present time because of its match-fixing and other malpractices, in fails to disclose information connected to the appreciated the Sports Minister for bringing Committee on Public Enterprises and the industries beyond traditional farming inherent ambiguities and confusions,” he order to safeguard sports in Sri Lanka above offences or any person who fails to forward this legislation. He stated that there Department of Auditor-General. He further methods must be introduced. “More said. against corrupt elements and to maintain cooperate in relation to any investigations in are many sportsmen and sportswomen with stated that appointing or nominating politicians attention has to be paid to the ocean The President also highlighted the need the ongoing good governance of all sports. respect of the above offences shall also be special talents in our country and such talents and political appointees to the Administrative economy. We will introduce a systematic for electoral reform. “Whilst preserving the The main objectives of the legislation liable to a fine up to two hundred thousand are not properly encouraged due to political Boards of various sports is one of the reasons program to improve the fisheries sector positive characteristics of the proportional are to prevent match fixing, corruption, rupees or up to three years imprisonment. interference, malpractices and corruption. for such malpractices and corruption, and through the introduction of new technologies representation system, electoral reforms are illegal manipulation and illegal betting in The legislation not only seeks to punish He also brought to the notice of the he therefore recommended enacting laws and equipment. Existing harbours will needed to ensure the stability of the Parliament sports through strengthening national and any person related to a sport who is directly Minister some shortcomings in distributing to prevent brokers becoming involved in the be improved and new harbours will be and to ensure the direct representation of the international co-operation among sports involved in match fixing, but also those who sports equipment in the Northern Province Administrative matters of the Cricket Board. developed to cater to the requirements of people. Though elections can be won through organisations and to promote best practice provide inside information and failure to report and requested that the Minister take He also stated that it is the bitter truth that the multi-day vessels that engage in deep sea numbers, an unstable Parliament that cannot in sports. corrupt approaches to the Special Investigation necessary action to formulate proper number of players playing for the country has fishing. Introducing new technologies to take clear decisions and remains constantly The Act makes provision for the Unit. Curators who prepare surfaces to suit procedures to distribute sports equipment. been declining due to the corrupt administration further develop the inland fisheries sector is under the influence of extremism is not one appointment of an independent and betting operators or the match officials who Hon. Arjuna Ranatunga, MP stated that in the sports, especially in cricket. also part of our plan. Protecting the natural that suits the country. We can solve this impartial Special Investigation Unit, deliberately misapply the rules for money can the Bill is very important and requested the Hon. Thilanga Sumathipala, MP environment for our future generations is problem through constitutional reforms that consisting of Police Officers (not below also be punished under this Act. Minister of Sports to take action to investigate expressed his cooperation for the enactment one of our fundamental responsibilities. We will establish a strong Executive, Legislature the rank of Assistant Superintendent) for Hon. Gamini Lokuge, MP stated that this past incidents as well. He further stated that of the legislation. However, he stated will pay special attention to environmental and an independent Judiciary that can ensure conducting investigations in relation to an legislation would protect and improve sports in addition to cricket, there have been issues that there are certain practical issues in protection in the formulation and the sovereignty of the people,” he said. offence under this Act. and urged that action should be taken to in the administration of rugby, football and on implementing this Bill and such provisions implementation of government policies.” The Ceremonial Session was officiated by Match fixing, corruption, illegal punish the corrupt players, regardless of party the Olympic Committee, where money plays need to be amended. Most of the policies outlined by President Dhammika Dasanayake, Secretary-General manipulation and illegal betting in sports conflicts or party politics. He also stated that a major role and that if these alleged past The Speaker of the Parliament of Sri Lanka Rajapaksa draws from his election manifesto, of the Parliament of Sri Lanka together with are defined as offences in Part II of the Bill. those involved in corruption and malpractices incidents were investigated, then some of the endorsed his certificate on the Bill on 18 which he repeatedly referred to in his Neil Iddawala, Deputy Secretary-General, Any person who commits such offences prior to the enactment of this legislation Administrators in the sports field would have November 2019 and it became the law of the statement. The manifesto aims to increase Kushani Rohanadeera and Tikiri Jayathilake, shall on conviction be liable to a fine not cannot be punished, as the Bill does not have been prosecuted and not the players. country from that date. annual growth to 6% and double per capital Assistant Secretaries-General.

administration, as she termed In announcing the return to of more than 30 grammes but the list will not be made public PARLIAMENTARY REPORTS FROM TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO the Budget had no imagination, the Red House, the Speaker not more than 60 grammes unless a court order. no innovation, no creativity, no told Members that the of cannabis will be governed The Attorney-General said Trinidad Parliament passes of the previous Government”, he has recognised that major year period starting 1 January ideas, no vision. “But worse, restoration of the Red House by a fixed penalty system. that the legislation along with 2019-2020 Budget told Parliament. demands are placed on our 2020 with technical assistance because they have achieved and the refurbishment of the “Community service provides the recent amendments to the The year 2020 is election year He said that the fiscal deficit command and control system. from the Inter-American so little with over $200 billion adjacent Cabildo Parliament an alternative remedy for failure Marriage Act which outlawed as the over one million voters for 2020 is expected to increase These include: surveillance Development Bank.” spent in the last four years Complex will be completed or refusal to pay prescribed the practice of child marriages of Trinidad and Tobago go marginally to $5.287 billion systems and drones, with Minister Imbert continued: and because this was his last by 31 December 2019. “As fines. This also criminalises in Trinidad and Tobago, aims to the polls to elect a new or 3.1% of Gross Domestic drones providing 24/7 eye-in- “The Cure Violence Budget when he needed to Members are all aware, the anything that a person does to protect children from sexual government, and the election is Product compared with a total the-sky capability to all ports Programme for which pilots sound triumphant for election Red House is the home of which constitutes negligence, abuse. likely to be held any time before deficit of $3.945 billion or 2.4% of entry, polygraph equipment will be implemented in sixteen purposes, the Minister had the Trinidad and Tobago professional malpractice The Bill was unanimously September 2020. of GDP in fiscal 2019, which for use in the recruitment of communities in East Port- to keep repeating things they Parliament and the seat of or professional misconduct passed in the House of Minister of Finance, Hon. was below the projected deficit police officers as well as on of-Spain will target those promised during the last four democracy. This monumental whilst under the influence of Representatives, and the Colm Imbert, MP told the of $4.050 billion. a random basis throughout highest at risks of being years to make it seemed a lot.” and historic building required cannabis. For the record while Attorney-General pronounced Parliament of Trinidad and Minister Imbert said that the police service, drug perpetrators and victims of Persad-Bissessar continued: urgent restoration and as possession under 30 grammes that: “If we can’t identify what Tobago in his presentation budgeted revenue for 2020 be testing equipment for our violent crimes. The programme “And in their fifth and final some Members may recall, in may be something we don’t is wrong with one society, we of the 2019-2020 Budget predicated on the same oil and police service, information will interact within the highest year, instead of having fruits 2011, a decision was made prescribe an offence, smoking are spinning the proverbial top Speech that total revenue was gas assumptions established and technology upgrades to risk communities to reduce of strategic intervention to to temporarily relocate both or using is still a criminal in the mud. That’s why our laws expected at $47.749 billion, up in the mid-year Budget Review support and strengthen police membership of gangs and celebrate, we were being told Houses of Parliament and all offence, Madame Speaker, and for many years have not had the from $46.559 or $1.190 billion and that he was utilizing an oil service capability. those vulnerable to gang of coming soon… everything support facilities and offices to therefore it is very important bite they ought to have.” from the estimated revised price of US$60.00 and a gas “Madam Speaker, with more involvement. This will be was coming soon. Stay tuned. our current location.” that people understand that According to the Bill, the outturn in 2019. price of US$ 3.00 per MMBtu. than three quarters of the implemented through the well- This confirms the fact that they The Red House, as it was there are still consequences. Commissioner of Police is “Total expenditure for fiscal “Our assumed oil price is below murders in the country being established and evaluated had no plan when they got into later called, was burnt down This law is not in effect yet until vested with custody and control 2020 has been budgeted at the International Monetary fire-arm related, the Trinidad Crime Violence Model which government and just fumbled following the Water Riots of 23 it is proclaimed by virtue of the of the National Sex Offender $53.036 billion - an increase Fund (IMF) oil price forecast of and Tobago Police Service is has been successfully tested and stumbled around for the March 1903, which was caused President’s proclamation.” Register and they would be of $2.533 billion over the fiscal $63.86 per barrel for 2020 and focusing on this type of violence in more than 22 cities in the last four years. And so forward by the hike in water rates, and it Opposition MP, Dr responsible for maintaining 2019 outturn of $50.504 billion, also lower than the current oil for reducing murders and United States, and eight other now to the future. And not in was rebuilt in 1907. On 27 July Bhoendradatt Tewarie, MP it, and making sure that the but significantly lower than the price forecasts by the World serious crime in the country. countries including Honduras, any vague, generalised way. 1990, following an attempted for Caroni Central, noted that information entered into it is in past expenditure of $62.840 Bank, United States Energy With the police tactical units Mexico, South Africa and the We have thought long and hard coup, the chamber was the Opposition was of the view accordance with the Act, and billion achieved in 2014. This Information administration addressing suppression, the United Kingdom.” about it. And as I demonstrated smashed up, and seven people that there was an imbalance in any written law. is a substantial reduction in (USEIA) and the International police community secretariat The Leader of the Opposition, today, we know exactly what to were killed. At the refurbished the fines and the community The Opposition fully expenditure from the 2014 Enerrgy Agency (IEA).” building community relations Hon. Kamla Persad Bissessar, do for the transformation and Red House, an eternal flame service time, and they felt fines supported the Bill as a move to peak level of $62.840 billion, Minister Imbert said that and the prison service on MP in her reply to the Minister’s resurrection of our nation’s ‘symbolizes in the need to be were too high and community curtail the horrendous quantum and it is approximately $10 it was his Government’s rehabilitation, Government has Budget said that she was economy. We must leave the ever vigilant in the protection of service was low, and was of child abuse sex cases which billion or 16% less than the intention to tackle crime and established the Cure Violence thankful that this Budget incompetent governance of our democracy’. concerned about the need for have now reached crisis state unsustainable 2014 expenditure criminality, the Government Programme for an initial three- was the last of this failed the last four years, epitomized an attorney in applying for a in Trinidad and Tobago. The by the emptiness of the 2020 Trinidad and Tobago marijuana case to be discharge. Commissioner of Police would budget.” Parliament legalizes have a critical role in seeing marijuana usage Trinidad Parliament that the Bill is fully understood Trinidad Parliament returns The President of Trinidad passes Sexual Offences and applied thoroughly. to its original home - Red and Tobago, Her Excellency Amendment Bill House Paula-Mae Weekes has Trinidad and Tobago have Election season in Trinidad The Parliament of Trinidad and proclaimed the Dangerous recorded over 10,000 cases and Tobago Tobago has returned to its Drugs (Amendment) Bill 2019, of child pregnancies over the The years 2019, 2020 and 2021 original home, the Red House, following its passage in both years and cases such as a are election season in Trinidad after a hiatus of ten years. Houses of Parliament, the 55-year old man marrying a and Tobago, and the first one The Speaker of the House of House of Representatives and 12-year old girl. took place on 2 December Representatives, Hon. Bridgid the Senate. Attorney-General, Faris 2019, with the holding of the Annisette-George, MP told In presenting the Bill, the Al-Rawi said that there is Local Government Elections. Members of Parliament that the Attorney-General, Faris evidence of abuse across According to the Elections Red House, which was the seat Al-Rawi said that one of the Trinidad and Tobago. He said and Boundaries Commission, of Parliament for over a century, major highlights of the Bill that the Sexual Offences an independent body protected will reconvene there by the end was that persons convicted (Amendment) Bill aims to by the Republican Constitution, of January 2020. The Parliament up to 60 grammes of cannabis provide for the establishment some 34.49% voted out of was temporarily housed at the resin shall have that offence of a sex-offences registry which 1,079,976 registered voters. Waterfront Plaza from October expunged from their criminal will make it mandatory for Total votes cast were 372,503, 2011 due to the deterioration of record and may apply under adults convicted of sex crimes with the Opposition United the building. the Constitution for a pardon. to be listed, but the names on National Congress (UNC) He pointed out the possession gaining 202,584 votes as

68 | The Parliamentarian | 2020: Issue One | 100th anniversary issue 1920-2020 The Parliamentarian | 2020: Issue One | 100th anniverary issue 1920-2020 | 69 PARLIAMENTARY REPORT TRINIDAD AND INDIA TOBAGO opposed to the ruling People’s National The President told an overflowing In its 2019 Winter Session, the Parliament of INDIA PARLIAMENT AMENDS THE CITIZENSHIP ACT Movement (PNM) which received Assembly of MPs, Senators, senior India passed the Citizenship (Amendment) December 2019 to introduce norms of enacting any law that The Shiv Sena MP Shri Constitution. Dr S. T. Hasan 161,962 votes. The UNC obtained government officials, diplomats and Bill, 2019 amending the Citizenship Act, the Bill. The Speaker of Lok it should be equitable, just, fair Vinayak Bhaurao Raut (SP) said there is apprehension 65 seats, while the PNM gained 74 distinguished officials in the local 1955 which provides the grounds for Sabha, Shri Om Birla allowed and non-discriminatory. There wanted to know the number among the Muslims that they seats, and at stake were 139 electoral community on Friday 24 January 2020, acquiring Indian citizenship. The Bill was several opposition Members to should be a holistic refugee of refugees proposed to be may be victimized. districts. There are 14 regional and that while MPs and others dabble in passed by Lok Sabha on 9 December 2019 make submissions and seek Bill that goes beyond religious given citizenship and the areas Shri Chirag Kumar Paswan city corporations, with each of the two semantics as to whether Trinidad and by 311 to 80 votes after about a seven and clarifications at the introduction considerations. in which they are going to be (LJSP) claimed that the Bill is major political parties tying for seven Tobago is a failed state or is in a crime half hour long debate. The Rajya Sabha stage. The Home Minister Shri Rajendra Agrawal settled without harming the not against secularism and corporations. crisis, citizens are murdered at an where the ruling party does not enjoy replied to the clarificatory (BJP) believed such a law of the interests of the original said the Bill is not about the The PNM won the urban corporations alarming rate. “They lack opportunities majority passed it on 11 December 2019 questions. After a division of should have been enacted long residents living there. Shri minorities of India but about the as Port-of-Spain, Arima, Diego Martin, for employment or are losing their by 125 to 105 votes. The Bill received votes, the motion was adopted, before to give citizenship to Rajiv Ranjan Singh (JD-U) said people of minority communities San Juan/Laventille, San Fernando jobs. Food prices are spiraling beyond Presidential assent on 12 December 2019. and the Bill was introduced. persecuted people belonging his party supports the Bill as it coming from Afghanistan, and Tunapuna. On the other hand, the the reach of many. More and more of Illegal migrants who enter India without Moving the motion for to certain communities. Shri is in the interest of secularism. Pakistan and Bangladesh. UNC won Couva/Tabaquite/Talparo, our children are falling into the at-risk valid travel documents, like a passport and consideration of the Bill, Shri Dayanidhi Maran (DMK) Smt. Sarmistha Sethi (BJD) While Shri P.K. Kunhalikutty Princes Town, Penal/Debe, Chaguanas, category. Citizens are entitled to look to visa, or enter with valid documents, but Amit Shah said the Bill will argued that the government asked the government to (IUML) opposed the Bill calling Mayaro/Rio Claro, Siparia and Sangre you for, and demand of you, solutions to stay beyond the permitted time period are enable millions of people to get is preoccupied with Pakistan include Sri Lanka along with it discriminatory and divisive, Grande; the latter was wrested by the alleviate their pain” she said, adding that prohibited from acquiring Indian citizenship. rid of their distressed life and and Bangladesh and is not Bangladesh, Pakistan and Shri S. Venkatesan (CPI-M) UNC from the PNM. citizens want MPs to work together for Such persons may be imprisoned or become citizens of India. The taking note of the Sri Lankans Afghanistan and also to dispel said a secular country cannot There was heavy campaigning in their good. deported under the Foreigners Act, 1946 government stands by the spirit applying for citizenship. Shri the apprehensions of Muslim provide citizenship on the the weeks preceding the vote on 2 The President continued: “Even the and the Passport (Entry into India) Act, of the Constitution that nobody Abhishek Banerjee (AITC) community as they have been basis of religion. Shri Adhir December 2019 as the PNM used the most desperate understand the nature 1920. These Acts empower the central should be discriminated on said the Bill is immoral, left out of the purview of the Ranjan Chowdhury (INC) said television, radio and newspaper as of politics, and that some degree of government to regulate the entry, exit and the basis of religion or creed unethical and unconstitutional Bill. Shri Afzal Ansari (BSP) the protest is not because its campaign strategy, whilst the UNC toeing the party line, posturing, old talk residence of foreigners within India. The and no one’s rights should and accused the government termed the Bill divisive and the government has brought primarily focussed on house-to-house and picong, come with the territory. central government had issued notifications be violated. He said India has of dividing India on the lines un-constitutional. Smt. Supriya the Bill to provide shelter campaign. Four small parties polled But at the end of the day, fidelity to in 2015 and 2016, exempting certain groups been giving citizenship to of caste, creed, religion, Sadanand Sule (INC) said to religiously persecuted approximately 2,500 votes. the people - our vulnerable women, of illegal migrants from provisions of the people coming from outside race and community. Shri the Bill does not stand on the community but because of The Prime Minister, Hon. Dr Keith our defenceless children, our angry 1946 and the 1920 Acts. The Citizenship from time to time. The Bill P. V. Midhun Reddy (YSR ground of equality as it leaves the criteria of religion it has Rowley claimed victory for the PNM by young men - must be the primary and (Amendment) Bill, 2019 seeks to make doesn’t discriminate with Congress) while supporting out some from its purview. adopted for giving citizenship. winning the highest number of electoral paramount concern of Parliamentarians. illegal migrants who are Hindus, Sikhs, anyone; it is for giving rights to Bill asked the government She wanted to know the Smt. Meenakashi Lekhi (BJP) seats, whilst the Opposition Leader, This morning, I assume the role of Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians from someone and not for snatching to proceed with caution. The reasons for leaving out Nepal, said India does not indulge Hon. Kamla Persad Bissessar, MP emissary, bringing to Parliament a Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan, who someone’s rights. Bill does not include Muslims Sri Lanka and Myanmar and in religious persecution and claimed victory for the UNC by winning message from the citizens of Trinidad were forced or compelled to seek shelter in Initiating the debate, Shri from Afghanistan, Pakistan selectively allowing people special regime has been the popular vote and equalizing with and Tobago who have entrusted to India due to persecution on the ground of Manish Tewari (INC) termed the and Bangladesh but even from certain countries. Shri created to cover the illegal the Government’s seven corporations. us the solemn responsibility to make religion eligible for Indian citizenship. The Bill unconstitutional as it violates in these Muslim majority Nama Nageswara Rao (TRS) migrants from Pakistan, Before the election, the PNM had such laws as would enable them to cutoff date is 31 December 2014. These the Preamble, Fundamental countries, there are sects who opposed the Bill as the Bill Bangladesh and Afghanistan controlled eight, whilst the UNC had live secure, productive, gratifying and illegal migrants will not be deported or Rights and the Basic Structure are in minority like Bohras and proposes to grant citizenship who neither get registered controlled six corporations. peaceful lives. Law and order, truth and imprisoned for being in India without valid of the Constitution of India. The Ahmadis and they should also on the basis of religion which under registration process Political observers and pundits claim justice, morality and decency, these are documents. The Bill exempts certain tribal Bill completely fails on the four be treated at par. is against the core value of the due to lack of documents that election fever has begun with the the values which should be associated areas included in the Sixth Schedule of projected General Election to be called with our Parliament.” the Constitution and those falling under within the year, and the Tobago House The President added that conversely, the Inner Line Permit Regime in the North of Assembly vote set for January 2021. if acrimony, contempt and divisiveness Eastern States. Critics of the law oppose the is the example we set, you cannot Act for making religion a test of citizenship. Trinidad’s President warns MPs be surprised when these attitudes A number of petitions have been filed in about escalating crime, rising and behaviours are replicated on the the Supreme Court of India questioning the unemployment and high food nation’s roads, in our schools and validity of the law. prices homes and on social media. Earlier a similar Bill seeking to make Trinidad and Tobago’s President Her “Citizens have a role to play towards illegal migrants belonging to these six Excellency Paula-Mae Weekes their own well-being and that of the communities from three countries eligible has warned Members of Parliament nation, yet also look to Parliament for citizenship had been introduced in of escalating crime, food prices and to lead the way, provide avenues for Lok Sabha in 2016. A Joint Parliamentary unemployment as she delivered the improvement and model desirable Committee had examined the Bill and Speech from the Throne, the first conduct.” She said that Parliament submitted its report on 7 January 2019. The in several years. She underscored has awesome power and citizens are Bill was passed by Lok Sabha on 8 January her concerns as she addressed the entitled to expect MPs to work together. 2019 but lapsed with the dissolution of the re-opening of the Red House, the seat Trinidad and Tobago is expecting its 16th Lok Sabha. of Parliament for over a century. 12th Parliament to be return by election The Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah by September 2020. sought the leave of the Lok Sabha on 9

nor can they be covered said the Bill if passed will under naturalization process go against many important as their visas have expired. provisions of the Constitution. THIRD READING: INDIA Shri Asaduddin Owaisi Dr Rajdeep Roy (BJP) claimed (AIMEM) opposed the Bill as Indian leaders have always The Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes the overall interest of public health as envisaged it is discriminatory against made efforts to ensure the (Production, Manufacture, Import, Export, under Article 47 of the Constitution which the Muslims and a conspiracy safety and security of minority Transport, Sale distribution, storage and provides that it is the duty of the State to raise to make Muslim migrants communities in India. Dr R. Advertisement) Bill, 2019. the level of nutrition and the standard of living stateless. He wanted to know K. Ranjan (BJP) thanked the E-cigarettes are electronic devices that heat a and to impose public health. It was felt expedient the state-wise number of Prime Minister and Home substance, with or without nicotine and flavors to that the e-cigarettes and the like devices should persons who are going to Minister for removing the create an aerosol for inhalation which a user can be prohibited. However, as the Parliament be given citizenship. Shri apprehensions of the people of inhale like the action of smoking. These include was not in session and in view of the urgency Sukhbir Singh Badal (SAD) the State as it is under stress all forms of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems, felt in the matter, the Prohibition of Electronic said the Bill is going to give due to illegal migrants. Dr Heat Not Burn products, e-Hookahs and the like Cigarettes (Production, Manufacture, Import, justice and protect a large Shashi Tharoor (INC) said the devices. The global community is concerned about Export, Transport, Sale, Distribution, Storage and number of people from minority Bill is not just an affront to the the potential impact of these new products on Advertisement) Ordinance, 2019 was promulgated communities who were basic tenets of equality and individual and public health. Due to their sleek and on the 18 September 2019. forced to flee Pakistan and religious non-discrimination attractive design, use of flavours that mask the The Government subsequently brought Afghanistan due to religious but also an all-out assault smell and ease of concealment, they had grown forward the Ordinance replacing Bill to prohibit the persecution and who have on the very idea of India that tremendously in popularity especially among the production, manufacture, import, export, transport, been living in India for a number the forefathers gave their younger generation. It is not yet established that sale, distribution, storage and advertisement of of years without citizenship. lives for during the freedom e-cigarettes are safer than traditional cigarettes electronic cigarettes in the interest of public health Shri Gaurav Gogoi (INC) said struggle. Shri Raju Bista (BJP) and the harmful effects of e-cigarette use are now to protect the people from harm and for matters the Bill is directly associated thanked the Home Minister for emerging across the world. Available scientific connected therewith or incidental thereto. with the National Register understanding the concerns of evidence indicates that use of e-cigarettes are hazardous for an active as well as a passive user, Salient Features of the Bill of Citizenship (NRC) and 1.9 said there is no rationale in of immigrants there and ask a milestone for the people of Manipur. e-cigarette solutions and emissions are known to • Provision has been made for declaration that it million people have been differentiating illegal migrants for bringing Assam under Assam in the days to come. Dr Replying to the debate, contain harmful chemicals which are hazardous is expedient in the public interest that the Union delisted from NRC in Assam, on the basis of religion and it the Inner Line Permit regime. Thol Thirumaavalavan (VCK) Shri Amit Shah said the Bill and some of whom considered to be toxicants. should take under its control the Electronic even though most of them have would have been appropriate Kumari Agatha K. Sangma criticized the government for seeks to end the agony of The Government constituted three sub-groups Cigarette Industry. proved their Indian citizenship. if the Bill had used the term (NPP) supporting the Bill also excluding Muslims and wanted millions of refugees who are of experts to recommend measures to control the • The production, manufacture, import, export, The Government should revise ‘persecuted minorities’ instead requested the government to to know why the government subjected to persecution and sale, supply, import, export, manufacturing and transport, sale or distribution of electronic the NRC first. of listing out non-Muslim exempt the entire North-East has not come forward to give leading a pitiable life. This trade of e-cigarettes under the prevailing legislative cigarettes or advertisement of the use of the Shri Dilip Ghosh (BJP) minorities. Shri Indra Hang from the Bill. Shri Shankar citizenship to Sri Lankan Bill does not violate Article framework, but they had recommended to prohibit said electronic cigarettes had been prohibited. requested the Members Subba (SKM) was against Lalwani (BJP) said today is a Tamils. Shri Bhagwant Mann 14 which places all people Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems. The World • Further, the storage of the stock of electronic support the Bill. Shri K. implementation of the Bill in historic day for the religious (AAP) said the Bill is in clear equally before law. There is Health Organisation – Framework Convention on cigarettes in any premises by the owner or Subbarayan (CPI) said the Bill Sikkim as citizenship of the minorities who have come violation of the Constitution no discrimination against Tobacco Control, 2003 to which India is a Party, occupier of such premises also had been intends to isolate Muslims and Sikkimese Indians is defined from Pakistan, Bangladesh of India. Shri Pallab Lochan Muslims in India and Bill is not provides update on the evidence of the health prohibited. divide Indians on the basis of by the Sikkim Subjects and Afghanistan. Shri Pradyut Das (BJP) thanked the Home in any way related to Muslims impact of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems, • The authorized officer had been empowered religion. Shri M. Badruddin Regulation, 1961. Shri Bordoloi (INC) cautioned Minister for his efforts to of this country. He assured impact on tobacco control efforts, and health risks to enter and search the premises having the Ajmal (AIUDF) called the Bill a Tokheho Yepthomi (NDPP) that the Bill if passed then it redress the apprehensions the minority communities the to non-users from exposure to their emissions. packages of electronic cigarettes and seize ‘divide and rule’ Bill, as it leaves thanked the government for may push Assam, along with of the North-Eastern States. government is committed to It also urges the Parties to restrict or prohibit, such stocks or any components thereof. out Muslim immigrants from exempting Nagaland State from the North-East, into an era of Shri Bhartruhari Mahtab give security, equality and equal as appropriate, the manufacture, importation, • Further the Central Government had been citizenship. He wanted to know the purview of the amendment. uncertainly and the unabated (BJD) asked the government rights to all. Whenever there exportation, distribution, presentation, sale and empowered to dispose of the stock seized after the fate of 1.9 million persons Shri C. Lalrosanga (MNF) influx and migration may erode to explain the efforts made by is any intervention about the use of the Electronic Nicotine Delivery System as completion of the proceedings before the court. left out from NRC in Assam. supported the Bill and also the identity of Assamese successive governments to put citizenship, it has been done appropriate to their context. • Provision had been for punishment for Smt. Locket Chatterjee thanked the central government people. Shri Shantanu Thakur in place a structured and robust to solve a specific problem The Indian Council of Medical Research had contravention of provisions of the Act with (BJP) pressed for passing for having exempted Mizoram (BJP) said opposition parties migration refugee policy. Shri and this particular Bill is for issued a White paper on Electronic Nicotine imprisonment which may extend to one year or the Bill at the earliest as it will and other States of the North- should not oppose the Bill for Saumitra Khan (BJP) said a the religious minorities from Delivery systems and had also recommended a with fine which may extend to one lakh rupees give a lifeline to thousands East from the ambit of the Bill. politics and look at the issue large number of Bengalis have Pakistan, Afghanistan and complete ban on e-cigarettes and other Electronic or with both. of refugees. Shri Hanuman Dr Lorho Pfoze (NPP) said from the human angle. been waiting for the Bill to be Bangladesh where Muslims Nicotine Delivery Systems based on currently Beniwal (RLP) welcomed the people of Manipur are feeling Shri Thomas Chazhikadan passed as it will give them the are not in minority. The Bill is available scientific evidence. The International Debate Bill as it seeks to grant Indian assured after the State was (Kerala Congress-M) wanted right to live with dignity. to give citizenship to religious Association for the Study of Lung Cancer also did The Bill was welcomed as a timely measure by citizenship to persecuted brought within the purview of to know why persons from Adv. A.M. Arif (CPI-M) alleged minorities who came from not recommend the use of e-cigarettes for treating members during discussion in both Houses of minorities from Pakistan, Inner Line Permit. Shri Naba only three neighbouring the government is trying Bangladesh, Pakistan and nicotine dependence even in cancer patients due Parliament. The Minister in-charge of the Bill at Bangladesh and Afghanistan. Kumar Sarania (Independent) countries have been included to divert people’s attention Afghanistan; therefore, the to the absence of sufficient evidence on their the outset thanked Members for their support to Shri N. K. Premachandran feared that the Bill will create on the grounds of religion while from the impact of economic question of China, Nepal and efficacy and safety. this public welfare measure. The Minister stated (RSP) opposed the Bill as it more problems for the people excluding Myanmar and Sri slowdown by bringing a Sri Lanka does not arise, said In view of the above recommendations and in that the Bill seeks to prohibit all commercial is contrary to the ideals of of Assam because of the Lanka. Shri Dilip Saikia (BJP) controversial Bill. Shri E. T. the Home Minister. secularism and pluralism. He presence of a large number claimed the Bill will prove to be Mohammed Basheer (IUML)

Debate During discussion on the Bill in both Houses of THIRD READING: INDIA Parliament, the Minister in charge of the Bill and all Members while expressing their views paid more opportunities, especially in the field of tributes and expressed gratitude to the martyrs. Debate design. The Bill was passed by Lok Sabha on The Amending Bill was met with a broad • The Chairperson of NIDs must be an 2 August 2019 and by Rajya Sabha on 19 agreement during discussions in both Houses eminent academician, scientist, technologist, November 2019. The Bill as passed by both of Parliament. The Minister in charge of the professional or industrialist. There is need Houses of Parliament was assented to by the Bill in his reply inter alia stated that the National for reservation to the SC, ST and other President of India on 5 December 2019. Institute of Design (Amendment) Bill, 2019 Backward class students. sought to give four design institutes the status • Through the Bill, various new opportunities The National Institute of Design of national importance, just like the original Bill would be created for North-Eastern, (Amendment) Bill, 2019 proposed to do with National Institute of Design, Southern and Western states of the country. The National Institute of Design Act, 2014 Ahmedabad in Gujarat. These four design It would add value to the skill of rural people was enacted to declare the National Institute institutes, which are situated in Madhya Pradesh, of the country including farmers and people of Design, Ahmedabad to be an institution of Assam, Haryana and Andhra Pradesh would from SC and ST communities. national importance for the promotion of quality function as autonomous institutes. This was • Provision be made for providing scholarship and excellence in education, research and also proposed by the Standing Committee on to the women, the poor, the SCs and the STs. training in all disciplines relating to design. Commerce in 2013 that these institutes would • The Government needs to study and In pursuance of the National Design Policy also be able to grant degrees and diplomas to research the country’s own indigenous and to raise the design education to global students pursuing academic courses there. handicrafts so that these are brought into standard of excellence in all regions of India, the The Government recognised the need for the ambit of the courses that are provided Government of India set up four new National this much required link between design and in national institutes. Also greater attention Institutes of Design in the States of Andhra industry. The Bill would serve as a nucleus for needs to be paid to the design of the Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Assam and Haryana, interacting between academia and industry. country’s crafts industry because without a operations for the trade of e-cigarettes. There extreme to actually ensure that the tobacco At present, in the composition of the Trust, as societies under the Societies Registration India has a large number of folk designs, tribal thriving craft industry it would not be possible is very strong, definite evidence to suggest menace in the country is curbed, eliminated and certain inconsistencies had been noticed. Act, 1860. These institutes, however, did not designs and classical designs. In order to for the country to show case to the world and that e-cigarettes are harmful for health. These eradicated and also strength world-wide fight There is a provision to make a party a specific have the authority to grant degree, diploma preserve such art forms and develop them an export India’s ancient traditional craft with e-cigarettes affect all organs of the system of against tobacco. Trustee and for the Leader of Opposition in and other academic distinctions. Therefore, immediate intervention had been felt to make better quality and better design. the body. Their use can lead to heart attacks, The Bill was passed by the Lok Sabha on the Lok Sabha as one of Trustees. The term of a need was felt to give them statutory status these art forms a part of the curriculum in the • The Indians had proved that given the right hypertension, diabetes, strokes and plethora of 27 November 2019. The Bill as passed by both nominated Trustees is five years and there is no so as to ensure the maintenance of similar National School of Design. Further, marketing training and environment; it would not be diseases of lungs. While it was true that use of Houses of Parliament was assented to by the provision in the Act to terminate a nominated standards and quality of education in all these beautifully designed products to the possible to produce works of arts that are e-cigarettes in India was found in only 0.02% President of India on 5 December 2019. Trustee before the expiry of their term. In areas or disciplines relating to design, as the world, in the domestic or global markets, would unmatched in design across the world. of the population, it cannot be assumed that view of the absence of designated Leader of National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad. It was directly benefit the local artisans. As regards There is a need to associate Make In India, the problem is not growing. Regulation is not The Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Opposition in the Lok Sabha and Trustees being accordingly proposed to declare the aforesaid the constitution of the Governing Council of Start-up India and Digital India with an enough. A complete ban was felt absolutely (Amendment) Bill, 2019 party specific, it had been felt necessary to Institutes as institutions of national importance these institutes the Minister proposed that the up-skilling design curriculum. necessary. Use of these products does not The Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Act, amend the said Act to make it apolitical and also and to confer power on them to grant degree, Ministry of Tribal Affairs should be also given • The Minister while replying to the discussion leave any foul odour generally associated with 1951 was enacted to provide for the erection to provide for termination of nominated Trustees diploma and other academic distinctions. a representation in the Council. It could be a inter alia at the outset expressed his cigarette smoking. The nation cannot afford and management of a National Memorial before the expiry of their term. The Government accordingly brought member of the TRIFED, the body responsible gratefulness to all the Members who had the new form of nicotine and psychoactive to perpetuate the memory of those killed or In view of the above, the Jallianwala Bagh forward the National Institute of Design for socio-economic development of tribal participated actively in the discussion. The substances addiction. The Government wounded on the 13 April 1919, in Jallianwala National Memorial (Amendment) Bill, 2019 (Amendment) Bill, 2019 to provide for the people by way of marketing development of the Minister stated that only way of legislation had been continuously working to ensure Bagh, Amritsar. The Act provides for a Trust for was brought forward. In the Bill, the words ‘the following: - tribal products. that the Parliament can declare any institute that relentless fight against harmful effect the erection and management of the Memorial President of the Indian National Congress’ as a (a) to amend section 2 of the Parent Act, A number of views were expressed during as an institute of national importance. He of tobacco is also on. India has a young and also provided for composition of the Trust Trustee was deleted. Further provision has been so as to declare the National Institutes of the participative discussion on the Amending assured the newly proposed institutes demography and there is concern regarding with certain Trustees for life. made to the effect that in place of ‘the Leader Design in the States of Andhra Pradesh, Bill in both Houses of Parliament including. would have the same standards as those of the impact of e-cigarettes on the younger Over a period of time, with the passing away of Opposition in the Lok Sabha’, ‘the Leader of Madhya Pradesh, Assam and Haryana, as • There is an early need for making functional the NID, Ahmadabad who is a world class generation. It is possible only at this point of time of Trustees appointed for life, the situation Opposition’ as such in the House of the People institutions of national importance; the proposed new National Institutes of institute. to ban e-cigarettes before they become too changed significantly, and the Government did or where there is no such Leader of Opposition, (b) to substitute section 4 of the Parent Act Design (NID) so that a lot more students • The Government also wants to make NIDs popular. not have proper representation on the Trust. then, the Leader of the single largest Opposition so as to provide for incorporation of each of can benefit. The fee in the NID is ranging a hub of exports and outsourcing of design The Minister finally stated that there are Therefore with a view to fill up vacancies caused Party in the House has been made ‘a Trustee’. the aforesaid institutes; from Rs.1 Lakh to Rs.3 Lakh or Rs.4 Lakh. and for preparation of platform for creative scientifically proven and tested nicotine on account of passing away of the Trustees for The Central Government has been conferred (c) to make consequential amendments to Concession has been sought for the people design and development. replacement therapy products. In addition, life, the Act was amended in the year of 2006, upon the power to terminate the term of a various sections of the said Act; who cannot afford this kind of fees; such a The Amending Bill was passed by Lok evidence-based cessation counseling services inter alia, to change the composition of the nominated trustee before the expiry of the (d) to amend section 27 of the said Act so as more will prove to be of immense benefit for Sabha on 26 November 2019 and by Rajya are provided through Tobacco Cessation Trust, to provide for fixed term of five years for period of his term. to designate the post of Principal Designer the needy. Sabha on 6 August 2019. The Bill as passed by Centers, Quit-Line Services and in Cessation nominated Trustee and for account and audit of instead of the Senior Designer, as equivalent • Happiness was expressed that more both Houses of Parliament was assented to by Programme. There is a need to go to the the Trust, etc. to a Professor. youngsters of the country would be getting the President of India on 29 November 2019.

CPA Patron, Officers, Executive Committee, Regional Representatives, Commonwealth CPA Small Branches Steering Committee CPA Regional CANADA Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Steering Committee and CPA Regional Secretaries Mr Michel Patrice CPA SMALL BRANCHES CARIBBEAN, AMERICAS Secretaries Parliament of Canada PATRON: VICE-PATRON: CHAIRPERSON AND THE ATLANTIC CARIBBEAN, AMERICAS AFRICA Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II Vacant (Canada Federal) Hon. Niki Rattle, Speaker of the Hon. W. McKeeva Bush, CARIBBEAN, AMERICAS & AND THE ATLANTIC Mr Steven Kagaigai Head of the Commonwealth Parliament of the Cook Islands OBE, JP, Speaker of the ATLANTIC Parliament of Tanzania Mr Pedro E. Eastmond Hon. Bridgid Annisette-George, (2019-2022) Legislative Assembly, Cayman Islands, (2019-2020) Parliament of Barbados CPA Executive Committee MP, Speaker of the House, ASIA Executive Committee Members’ dates of membership are indictated below each name. AFRICA Also: Vice-Chairperson of the Trinidad & Tobago, (2017-2021)* Mr Syed Shamoon Hashmi Correct at time of printing. *Terms extended as no CPA General Assembly held in 2018 and 2020. Hon. Gervais Henrie, MNA CPA Small Branches. INDIA Portrait of The Queen © John Swannell/Camera Press Parliament of Pakistan Hon. Andy Glenn Daniel, MP Seychelles Smt Snehlata Shrivastava Speaker of the House of (2019-2021) PACIFIC Parliament of India Officers Regional AUSTRALIA AUSTRALIA Assembly, St Lucia, (2019-2022) Hon.Tofa Nafoitoa Talaimanu Representatives Ms Alex Cullum PRESIDENT: (2019-2021)*: AUSTRALIA Keti, MP, Samoa PACIFIC Hon. John Ajaka, MLC, President Parliament of Australia Vacant (Canada Federal) Hon. Dwayne Taylor, MHA, Hon. Joy Burch, MLA (2019-2022) Ms Wendy Hart AFRICA of the Legislative Council, New Speaker of the House of Speaker of the Legislative Parliament of New Zealand South Wales, (2016-2021)*, Also BRITISH ISLANDS & VICE-PRESIDENT: Assembly, Turks & Caicos Assembly, Australian Capital SOUTH-EAST ASIA Hon. Bernard Songa CPA Vice-Chairperson. MEDITERRANEAN (2019-2021)*: (2019-2022) Territory (2019-2021) Hon. Dato’ Haji Hamdan bin SOUTH-EAST ASIA Sibalatani, MP, Vice- Mr Jon Davies Rt Hon. Aaron Mike Oquaye, Bahari, MLA, Speaker of the Mrs Roosme Hamzah Chairperson of the National Hon. Bruce Atkinson, MLC Parliament of the United Kingdom MP, Speaker of the Parliament INDIA BRITISH ISLANDS AND Legislative Assembly, Perlis Parliament of Malaysia Council, Namibia Victoria, (2017-2021)* of Ghana (2016-2021)* MEDITERRANEAN (2019-2020) Shri Premchand Aggarwal, MLA Deputy Lyndon Trott Senator Hon. Scott Ryan, CHAIRPERSON OF THE Speaker of Legislative Assembly, Guernsey The CPA Small Branches Steering Hon. Lazarous Chungu President of the Senate Uttarakhand , (2016-2021)* Committee comprises the CPA Small CPA Headquarters Secretariat EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Bwalya, MP, Zambia (2019-2020) Branches Chairperson and seven Australia Federal, (2019-2022) To complete term started by other Member. (2017-2021)*: (2016-2021)* Members who represent the seven out Mr Jarvis Matiya Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, MP CANADA of the nine Regions of the CPA with Acting CPA Secretary-General BRITISH ISLANDS AND Shri Hitendra Goswami, MLA Small Branches. Deputy Speaker, Cameroon Hon. Nils Clarke, MLA Hon. Dr Makali Mulu, MP MEDITERRANEAN Speaker of the Legislative Speaker of the Legislative Commonwealth Parliamentary Tel: +44 (0)20 7799 1460 Kenya Assembly, Assam, (2017-2021)* VICE-CHAIRPERSON Assembly, Yukon Association, CPA Headquarters Email: [email protected] (2017-2021)* Hon. Stuart McMillan, MSP (2019-2021)*: (2019-2022) Secretariat, Richmond House, www.cpahq.org Scotland (stand-by Branch for Shri Anurag Sharma, MP, Lok Hon. John Ajaka, MLC Houses of Parliament, London Twitter @CPA_Secretariat Rt Hon. Sephiri Enoch Northern Ireland), (2016-2021)* Sabha, India Union, (2019-2022) President of the Legislative Motanyane, MP, Speaker of the SW1A 0AA, United Kingdom Facebook.com/CPAHQ Council, New South Wales. National Assembly, Lesotho Hon. Leona Roberts, MLA PACIFIC Regional Representative, Australia (2017-2021)* Falkland Islands, (2017-2021)* Region (2016-2021)* Hon. Clayton Mitchell, MP A full listing of all CPA Branches can be found on pages 78-85 and at: www.cpahq.org Hon. Mensah Bonsu, MP Hon. Ian Liddell-Grainger, MP New Zealand, (2016-2021)* TREASURER (2019-2022): Ghana, (2019-2022) United Kingdom, (2019-2022) Hon. Datuk Shamsul Iskander Hon. Francesca Semoso, MHR Md. Akin, MP (Malaysia) Rt Hon. Dr Abass Bundu, MP CANADA Deputy Speaker, Bougainville, Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Steering Committee Speaker of the Parliament of (2017-2021)* COMMONWEALTH WOMEN CWP PRESIDENT ASIA CANADA PACIFIC Sierra Leone, (2019-2022) Hon. François Paradis, MNA, PARLIAMENTARIANS (CWP) Hon. Ratu Epeli Nailatikau Vacant Ms Munaza Hassan, MNA Ms Laura Ross, MLA Ms Anahila Kanongata’a- Québec, (2016-2021)* To complete CHAIRPERSON (2019-2022): Speaker of Parliament of Fiji Canada Federal Pakistan Saskatchewan Suisuiki, MP ASIA term started by other Member. Hon. Shandana Gulzar Khan, (2019-2022) (2019-2021) (2018-2021) (2017-2020) New Zealand Parliament MNA (Pakistan) (2017-2020) Hon. Dr Fehmida Mirza, MP Hon. Kevin Murphy, MHA SOUTH-EAST ASIA CWP CHAIRPERSON AUSTRALIA CARIBBEAN, AMERICAS Pakistan, (2016-2021)* Speaker of the House of CPA SMALL BRANCHES Hon. Shandana Gulzar Khan, Hon. Michelle O’Byrne, MP AND THE ATLANTIC SOUTH-EAST ASIA Assembly, Nova Scotia Hon. Suhaizan Kayat, MLA, CHAIRPERSON Hon. Dr Lal Chand Ukrani, MPA MNA, Pakistan Tasmania Hon. Jeannine Giraudy- Hon. Alice Lau Kiong Yieng, MP (2017-2021)* Speaker of State Legislative (2019-2022): Sindh, (2017-2021)* (2019-2022) Acting CWP Rep (2019-2022) McIntyre, MP Malaysia Hon. Niki Rattle, Speaker of the Assembly, (2016-2021)* President of the Senate, St Lucia (2019-2022) Hon. Yasmin Ratansi, MP Parliament of the Cook Islands AFRICA BRITISH ISLANDS AND (2018-2021) Hon. Karu Jayasuriya, MP Canada Federal Hon. Mr Zainal Sapari, MP Hon. Zainab Gimba, MP MEDITERRANEAN Speaker of Parliament (2019-2022) The CPA Coordinating Committee Singapore, (2017-2021)* Nigeria Hon. Margaret Mitchell, MSP INDIA comprises the CPA Chairperson, Sri Lanka, (2019-2022) (2019-2022) Scotland Smt. Kirron Kher, MP Vice-Chairperson, Treasurer, CPA Hon. Datuk Wira Dr Mohd Hatta Small Branches Chairperson Also CWP Vice-Chairperson Acting CWP Rep (2019-2022) Lok Sabha, India (2017-2020) Md Ramli, MP, Malaysia (2019- and Commonwealth Women *Executive Committee Members’ terms extended as no CPA General (2019-2020) Parliamentarians (CWP) Chairperson. Assembly held in 2018 and 2020. 2022)

Information correct as provided to CPA Headquarters Secretariat by CPA Branches at time of printing. A full listing of all CPA Branches EASTERN CAPE MPUMALANGA UGANDA BALOCHISTAN CPA Branch Directory can be found in the CPA Directory at: www.cpahq.org/cpahq/directory. Please email any amendments to [email protected]. (www.eclegislature.gov.za) (www.mpuleg.gov.za) (www.parliament.go.ug) (www.pabalochistan.gov.pk) CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: Hon. Fikile Devilliers Xasa, Hon. Busisiwe Shiba, MPL, Rt Hon. Rebecca A. Kadaga, Hon. Mir Abdul Quddus Bezinjo, CPA AFRICA REGION KENYA NAMIBIA Ebonyi | Edo | Ekiti | Enugu | MPL, Speaker of the Legislature Speaker of the Legislature MP, Speaker of Parliament MP, Speaker of the Legislature (www.parliament.go.ke) (www.parliament.na) Gombe | Imo | Jigawa | Kaduna CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: BOTSWANA Joint CPA Branch Presidents: Joint CPA Branch Presidents: | Kano | Katsina | Kebbi | Kogi | Mr Vugani Mapolisa, Secretary Ms Linda Mwale, Secretary to Mrs Jane Lubowa Kibirge, Clerk Mr Shamsuddin, Secretary of the (www.parliament.gov.bw) Hon. Justin Muturi, MP, Speaker Hon. Bernard Songa Sibalatani, Kwara | Nasarawa | Niger | Ogun to the Legislature the Legislature of Parliament Legislature CPA Branch President: of the National Assembly and MP, Chairperson of the National | Ondo | Osun | Oyo | Plateau | P: +27 40 608 0207 P: +27 13 766 1219 P: +256 414 377 000 / 150 P: +92 81 9201950 Hon. Phandu Tombola Chaha Senator Hon. Ken Lusaka, Council and Hon. Professor Rivers State | Sokoto | Zamfara E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Skelemani, MP, Speaker of the Speaker of the Senate Peter Hitjitevi Katjavivi, MP, NORTH-WEST PROVINCE [email protected] National Assembly CPA Branch Secretary: Speaker of the National Assembly RWANDA FREE STATE (www.nwpl.gov.za) KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA CPA Branch Secretary: Mr Michael Sialai, Clerk of the Joint CPA Branch Secretary: (www.parliament.gov.rw) (www.fsl.gov.za) CPA Branch President: ZAMBIA (www.pakp.gov.pk) Ms Barbara Ntheeleng Dithapo, Assembly Ms Lydia Kandetu, Secretary to CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: Hon. S. R. Dantjie, MPL, (www.parliament.gov.zm) CPA Branch President: Clerk of the National Assembly P: +254 222 212 91 the National Assembly and Mr Hon. Donatille Mukabalisa, Hon. Zanele Sifuba, MPL, Speaker of the Legislature CPA Branch President: Hon. Mushtaq Ahmad Ghani, P: +267 361 6800 E: [email protected] Tousy Namiseb, Secretary to the Speaker of the Chamber of Speaker of the Legislature CPA Branch Secretary: Rt Hon. Patrick Matibini, MP, MLA, Speaker of the Legislature E: [email protected] National Council Deputies CPA Branch Secretary: Mr Oageng Mosiane, Secretary Speaker of the National Assembly CPA Branch Secretary: LESOTHO P: + 264 61 288 9111 CPA Branch Secretary: Mr Leonard Mofokeng, to the Legislature CPA Branch Secretary: Mr Nasrullah Khan Khattak, CAMEROON Joint CPA Branch Presidents: E: [email protected] Ms Jeanine Kambanda, Clerk of Secretary to the Legislature P: +27 18 392 7000 Ms Cecilia N. Mbewe, Clerk of Secretary of the Legislature (www.assnat.cm) Hon. Sephiri Motanyane, MP, the Chamber of Deputies P: +27 51 407 1239 E: [email protected] the National Assembly P: +92 91 921 0214 CPA Branch President: Speaker of the National Assembly NIGERIA P: +250 788 309 920 E: [email protected] P: +260 211 292 425-36 E: [email protected] Hon. Cavaye Yeguie Djibril, MP, and Senator Hon. Monaheng (www.nassnig.org) E: jeanine.kambanda@ NORTHERN CAPE E: [email protected] President of the National Assembly Mokitimi, President of the Senate CPA Branch President: parliament.gov.rw GAUTENG (www.ncpleg.gov.za) [email protected] PUNJAB (PAKISTAN) CPA Branch Secretary: Joint CPA Branch Secretary: Rt Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, (http://gpl.gov.za) CPA Branch President: (www.pap.gov.pk) Mr Ndum John Teboh, Clerk of Mr Lebohang Fine Maema, Clerk Speaker of the House of SEYCHELLES CPA Branch President: Hon. Newrene Claudine Klaaste, CPA Branch President: the National Assembly of the National Assembly and Mr Representatives (http://nationalassembly.sc) Hon. Ntombi Lentheng Mekgwe, MPL, Speaker of the Legislature CPA ASIA REGION Hon. Parvez Elahi, MLA, Speaker P: +237 222 22 04 84 Selete Molete, Clerk of the Senate CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch President: MPL, Speaker of the Legislature CPA Branch Secretary: of the Legislature E: [email protected] P: +266 22 320 000 Mr M. A. Sani-Omolori, Clerk of Hon. Nicholas Prea, MNA, CPA Branch Secretary: Mr Patrick B. Moopelwa, BANGLADESH CPA Branch Secretary: E: [email protected] the National Assembly Speaker of the National Mr Peter Skosana, Secretary to Secretary to the Legislature (www.parliament.gov.bd) Mr Muhammad Khan Bhatti, ESWATINI (SWAZILAND) P: +234 923 422 69 Assembly the Legislature P: +27 53 839 8013 CPA Branch President: Secretary of the Legislature Joint CPA Branch Presidents: MALAWI E: [email protected] CPA Branch Secretary: P: +27 11 498 5950 E: [email protected] Hon. Dr Shirin Sharmin P: +92 42 992 00 321 Hon. Petros Mavimbela, (www.parliament.gov.mw) Ms Jutta Alexis, Clerk of the E: [email protected] Chaudhury, MP, Speaker of E: [email protected] MP, Speaker of the National CPA Branch President: NIGERIA STATE BRANCHES National Assembly WESTERN CAPE Parliament Assembly and Senator Lindiwe Hon. Catherine Gotani Hara, MP, CPA Coordinator for Nigeria P: +248 428 5600 KWAZULU-NATAL (www.wcpp.gov.za) CPA Branch Secretary: SINDH Dlamini, President of the Senate Speaker of the National Assembly State Legislatures: Mrs Harry E: [email protected] (http://kznlegislature.gov.za) CPA Branch President: Mr Zafar Ahmed Khan, Secretary (www.pas.gov.pk) CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: Antiba Taylor. CPA Branch President: Hon. Masizole Mnqasela, MPP, of Parliament CPA Branch President: Mr Ndvuna Dlamini, Clerk Ms Fiona Kalemba, Clerk of the E: [email protected] SIERRA LEONE Hon. Ntobeko Boyce, MPL, Speaker of the Legislature P: +88 02 911 9140 Hon. Agha Siraj Khan Durani, P: +268 2416 2407 National Assembly (http://parliament.gov.sl) Speaker of the Legislature CPA Branch Secretary: E: [email protected] MLA, Speaker of the Legislature E: [email protected] P: +265 1 771 825 AKWA-IBOM CPA Branch President: CPA Branch Secretary: Mr Romeo Adams, Secretary to [email protected] CPA Branch Secretary: E: [email protected] CPA Branch Vice-President: Rt. Hon Dr Abass Chernor Ms Nerusha Naidoo, Secretary the Legislature Mr Hadi Bux Buriro, Secretary of THE GAMBIA Hon. Effiong Okon Bassey, MP, Bundu, Speaker of Parliament to the Legislature P: +27 21 487 1600 PAKISTAN the Legislature CPA Branch President: MAURITIUS Deputy Speaker of the House CPA Branch Secretary: P: +27 33 355 7600 E: [email protected] (www.na.gov.pk) P: +92 21 921 2000 Rt Hon. Mariam Jack-Denton, MP, (http://mauritiusassembly. CPA Branch Secretary: Hon. Umarr Paran Tarawally, E: [email protected] (www.senate.gov.pk) E: [email protected] Speaker of the National Assembly govmu.org) Mrs Mandu I. Umoren, Clerk of Parliament and Secretary TANZANIA Joint CPA Branch Presidents: CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch President: Secretary to the House to the Commission LIMPOPO (www.parliament.go.tz) Hon. Asad Qaiser, MP, Speaker SRI LANKA Mr. Momodou A. Sise, Clerk of Hon. Sooroojdev Phokeer, P: +234 803 209 2191 P: +232 78 649 164 (www.limpopoleg.gov.za) CPA Branch President: of the National Assembly and (www.parliament.lk) the National Assembly Speaker of the National Assembly E: [email protected] E: [email protected] CPA Branch President: Hon. Job Yustino Ndugai, MP, Hon. Muhammad Sadiq CPA Branch President: P: +220 783 0713 / 997 6443 CPA Branch Secretary: Hon. Mavhungu Lerule- Speaker of the National Assembly Sanjrani, Chairman of the Senate Hon. Karu Jayasuriya, MP, E: [email protected] Mrs Safeena B. Lotun, Clerk of BORNO SOUTH AFRICA Ramakhanya, MPL, Speaker of CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: Speaker of Parliament the National Assembly CPA Branch contact: (www.parliament.gov.za) the Legislature Mr Steven Kagaigai, Clerk of the Mr Akhtar Nazir, Secretary of CPA Branch Secretary: GHANA P: +230 577 416 33 E: [email protected] CPA Branch President: CPA Branch Secretary: National Assembly the Senate Mr Dhammika Dasanayake, (www.parliament.gh) E: [email protected] Hon. Thandi Modise, MP, Mr R. A. Makhado, Secretary to P: +255 26 232 2761 P: +92 51 921 2265 Secretary-General of Parliament CPA Branch President: TARABA Speaker of the National the Legislature E: [email protected] E: [email protected] P: +94 11 277 7277/8 Rt Hon. Aaron Mike Oquaye, MP, MOZAMBIQUE CPA Branch Secretary: Assembly P: +27 15 633 8000 E: [email protected] Speaker of Parliament CPA Branch President: Mr Ismailu T. Ukwen, Clerk to CPA Branch Secretary: E: [email protected] ZANZIBAR CPA Branch Secretary: Hon. Veronica Macamo Dhlovo, the House Ms Penelope Nolizo Tyawa, (www.zanzibarassembly.go.tz) Mr Emmanuel Anyimadu, Clerk President of the National Assembly P: +234 79 222 626 Acting Secretary to Parliament CPA Branch President: to Parliament CPA Branch Secretary: E: [email protected] P: +27 21 403 3863/2911 Hon. Zubeir Ali Maulid, MP, P: +233 302 66 40 42 Armando Mario Correia, Clerk E: [email protected] Speaker of the House E: [email protected] of the National Assembly The following CPA Branches are CPA Branch Secretary: P: +258 21 22 51 00 currently suspended: Anambra Ms Raya Issa Msellem, Clerk E: [email protected] | Abia | Adamawa | Bauchi | P: +255 24 224 2000 Benue | Cross River | Delta | E: [email protected]

Information correct as provided to CPA Headquarters Secretariat by CPA Branches at time of printing. A full listing of all CPA Branches MALTA WALES NEW BRUNSWICK ONTARIO CPA Branch Directory can be found in the CPA Directory at: www.cpahq.org/cpahq/directory. Please email any amendments to [email protected]. (https://parlament.mt) (www.assembly.wales) (www.gnb.ca/legis) (www.ola.org) CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: Hon. Angelo Farrugia, MP, Hon. Elin Jones, AM, Presiding Hon. Daniel Guitard, MLA, Hon. Ted Arnott, MPP, Speaker CPA AUSTRALIA REGION NORTHERN TERRITORY VICTORIA FALKLAND ISLANDS Speaker of the House of Officer (Llywydd) Speaker of the Legislative of the Legislative Assembly (https://parliament.nt.gov.au) (www.parliament.vic.gov.au) (www.falklands.gov.fk) Representatives CPA Branch Secretary: Assembly CPA Branch Secretary: AUSTRALIA FEDERAL CPA Branch President: Joint CPA Branch Presidents: CPA Branch President: CPA Branch Secretary: Mr Al Davies, Senior CPA Branch Secretary: Mr Todd Decker, Clerk of the (www.aph.gov.au) Hon. Kezia Purick, MLA, Hon. Shaun Leane, MLC, Hon. Keith Biles, Speaker of the Mr Raymond Scicluna, Clerk of International Relations and Mr Donald J. Forestell, Clerk of Legislative Assembly Joint CPA Branch Presidents: Speaker of the Legislative President of the Legislative Legislative Assembly the House of Representatives Protocol Manager the Legislative Assembly P: +1 416 325 7500 Senator Hon. Scott Ryan, Assembly Council and Hon. Colin Brooks, CPA Branch Secretary: P: +356 255 96 000 P: +44 300 200 6255 P: +1 506 453 2506 E: [email protected] President of the Senate and Hon. CPA Branch Secretary: MLA, Speaker of the Legislative Ms Cherie Clifford, Clerk of E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected] [email protected] Tony Smith, MP, Speaker of the Mr Michael Tatham, Clerk of the Assembly the Legislative Assembly and [email protected] House of Representatives Legislative Assembly CPA Branch Secretary: Executive Council NORTHERN IRELAND NEWFOUNDLAND AND PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND CPA Branch Secretary: P: +61 8 8946 1450 Mr Andrew Young, Clerk of P: +500 27451 / 400 (www.niassembly.gov.uk) LABRADOR (www.assembly.pe.ca) Ms Claressa Surtees, Clerk of E: [email protected] the Parliaments and Clerk of the E: [email protected] CPA Branch President: CPA CANADA REGION (www.assembly.nl.ca) CPA Branch President: the House of Representatives Legislative Council Hon. Alex Maskey, MLA, CPA Branch President: Hon. Colin LaVie, MLA, Speaker Assistant Branch Secretary: QUEENSLAND P: +61 3 9651 8911 GIBRALTAR Speaker of the Assembly CANADA FEDERAL Hon. Scott Reid, MHA, Speaker of of the Legislative Assembly Ms Alex Cullum, Director, (www.parliament.qld.gov.au) E: [email protected] (www.parliament.gi) Acting CPA Branch Secretary: (www.parl.ca) the House of Assembly CPA Branch Secretary: International and Parliamentary CPA Branch President: [email protected] CPA Branch President: Mr Nick Mitford, International Joint CPA Branch President: CPA Branch Secretary: Mr Joey Jeffrey, Clerk of the Relations Office Hon. Curtis Pitt, MP, Speaker of Hon. Melvyn Farrell, MP, Engagement Team Senator Hon. George Furey, Ms Sandra Barnes, Clerk of the Legislative Assembly P: +61 2 6277 4111 the Legislative Assembly WESTERN AUSTRALIA Speaker of the Parliament P: +44 28 90 521137 Speaker of the Senate and Hon. House of Assembly P: +1 902 368 5970 E: [email protected] CPA Branch Secretary: (www.parliament.wa.gov.au) CPA Branch Secretary: E: [email protected] Anthony Rota, MP, Speaker of P: +1 709 729 3405 E: [email protected] [email protected] Mr Neil Laurie, Clerk of the Joint CPA Branch Presidents: Mr Paul Martinez, Clerk of the the House of Commons E: [email protected] [email protected] AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL Legislative Assembly Hon. Kate Doust, MLC, President Parliament ST HELENA CPA Branch Secretary: TERRITORY P: +61 7 3553 6000 of the Legislative Council and Hon. P: +350 200 741 86 CPA Branch President: Mr Remi Bourgault, Association NORTHWEST TERRITORIES QUÉBEC (www.parliament.act.gov.au) E: cpa.queensland@parliament. Peter Watson, MLA, Speaker of E: [email protected] Hon. John Cranfield, MLC, Secretary (www.ntassembly.ca) (www.assnat.qc.ca) CPA Branch President: qld.gov.au the Legislative Assembly Speaker of the Legislative P: +1 613 992 2093 CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: Hon. Joy Burch, MLA, Speaker CPA Branch Secretary: GUERNSEY Council E: [email protected] Hon. Frederick Blake Jr., MLA, Hon. François Paradis, MNA, of the Legislative Assembly SOUTH AUSTRALIA Ms Kirsten Robinson, Clerk of (www.gov.gg) CPA Branch Secretary: [email protected] Speaker of the Legislative Assembly President of National Assembly CPA Branch Secretary: (www.parliament.sa.gov.au) the Legislative Assembly CPA Branch President: Ms Carol George, Head of CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: Mr Tom Duncan, Clerk of the Joint CPA Branch Presidents: P: +61 8 9222 7222 Hon. Richard Collas, Bailiff and Corporate Services ALBERTA Mr Tim Mercer, Clerk of the Ms Mylène Poulin, Conseiller Legislative Assembly Hon. Vincent Tarzia, MP, Speaker E: [email protected] President of the States P: +290 22 314 (www.assembly.ab.ca) Legislative Assembly P: +1 418 643 7239 P: +61 2 6205 0191 of the Legislative Assembly and CPA Branch Secretary: E: Carol.George@sainthelena. CPA Branch President: P: +1 867 669 2299 E: [email protected] E: [email protected]. Hon. Terry Stephens, MLC, Mr Simon Ross, Deputy Greffier gov.sh Hon. Nathan Cooper, MLA, E: [email protected] [email protected] gov.au President of the Legislative Council CPA BRITISH ISLANDS P: +44 1481 749 520 Speaker of the Legislative Assembly CPA Branch Secretary: AND MEDITERRANEAN E: [email protected] SCOTLAND CPA Branch Secretary: NOVA SCOTIA SASKATCHEWAN NEW SOUTH WALES Mr Rick Crump, Clerk of the REGION (www.parliament.scot) Ms Shannon Dean, Clerk of the (https://nslegislature.ca) (www.legassembly.sk.ca) (www.parliament.nsw.gov.au) Legislative Assembly ISLE OF MAN CPA Branch President: Legislative Assembly CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: P: +61 8 8237 9100 (www.tynwald.org.im) Rt Hon. Ken Macintosh, MSP, Hon. Kevin Murphy, MHA, Hon. Mark Docherty, MLA, Joint CPA Branch Presidents: ALDERNEY P: +1 780 427 2826 E: clerksoffice@parliament. Joint CPA Branch Presidents: Presiding Officer Speaker of the House of Assembly Speaker of the Legislative Hon. John Ajaka, MLC, President (www.alderney.gov.gg) E: [email protected] sa.gov.au Hon. Steve Rodan, MLC, CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: Assembly of the Legislative Council and Hon. CPA Branch President: President of Tynwald and Mr Michael Stone, International Ms Annette Boucher, Acting CPA Branch Secretary: Jonathan O’Dea, MP, Speaker of Hon. William Tate, President of BRITISH COLUMBIA TASMANIA President of the Legislative Parliamentary Relations Officer Clerk of the House of Assembly Mr Gregory Putz, Clerk of the the Legislative Assembly the States (www.leg.bc.ca) (www.parliament.tas.gov.au) Council and Hon. Juan P: +44 131 348 5000 P: +1 902 424 4661 Legislative Assembly CPA Honorary Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: Watterson, SHK, Speaker of the E: [email protected] E: [email protected] P: +1 306 787 2377 Ms Helen Minnican, Clerk of the Mr Jonathan Anderson, Greffier Hon. Darryl Plecas, MLA, Speaker Hon. Tania Rattray, MLC House of Keys E: [email protected] Legislative Assembly of the Court of the Legislative Assembly CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: UNITED KINGDOM NUNAVUT CPA Assistant Branch Secretary: P: +44 1481 820 050 CPA Branch Secretary: Ms Catherine Vickers, Deputy Mr Roger Phillips, Clerk of of (www.uk-cpa.org) (www.assembly.nu.ca) YUKON Mr David Blunt, Clerk of E: [email protected] Ms Kate Ryan-Lloyd, Clerk of Parliaments Clerk of the Legislative Council Tynwald Joint CPA Branch Presidents: the Legislative Assembly CPA Branch President: (www.legassembly.gov.yk.ca) P: +61 3 6212 2300 P: +44 1624 685 500 Rt Hon. Lord Norman Fowler, Hon. Paul A. Quassa, MLA, CPA Branch President: P: +61 2 9230 2111 CYPRUS P: +1 250 387 3785 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Lord Speaker and Rt Hon. Sir Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Hon. Nils Clarke, MLA, Speaker E: [email protected]. (www.parliament.cy) E: [email protected] Lindsay Hoyle, MP, Speaker of CPA Branch Secretary: of the Legislative Assembly gov.au CPA Branch President: JERSEY the House of Commons Mr John Quirke, Clerk of the CPA Branch Secretary: Hon. Demetris Syllouris, MANITOBA (https://statesassembly.gov.je) CPA Branch Secretary: Legislative Assembly Mr Dan Cable, Clerk of the President of the House of (www.gov.mb.ca/legislature) CPA Branch President: Mr Jon Davies, Chief Executive P: +1 867 975 5000 Legislative Assembly Representatives CPA Branch President: Hon. Tim Le Cocq, Bailiff and P: +44 20 7219 5373 E: [email protected] P: +1 867 667 5498 CPA Branch Secretary: Hon. Myrna Driedger, MLA, President of the States E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Mr Socrates Socratous, Speaker of the Legislative CPA Branch Secretary: Secretary-General of the House Assembly Mr Mark Egan, Greffier of the of Representatives CPA Branch Secretary: States P: +357 22 407 304 Ms Patricia Chaychuk, Clerk of P: +44 1534 441 080 E: [email protected] the Legislative Assembly E: [email protected] [email protected] P: +1 204 945 3636 E: [email protected]

Information correct as provided to CPA Headquarters Secretariat by CPA Branches at time of printing. A full listing of all CPA Branches CPA INDIA REGION CHHATTISGARH HIMACHAL PRADESH MADHYA PRADESH CPA Branch Directory can be found in the CPA Directory at: www.cpahq.org/cpahq/directory. Please email any amendments to [email protected]. (www.cgvidhansabha.gov.in) (www.hpvidhansabha.nic.in) (www.mpvidhansabha.nic.in) INDIA UNION CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: Hon. Charan Das Mahant, Hon. Shri Brij Behari Lal Butail, Hon. Shri Narmada Prasad BELIZE GRENADA NEVIS ISLAND (https://parliamentofindia.nic.in) CPA CARIBBEAN, MLA, Speaker of the Legislative MLA, Speaker of the Legislative Prajapati, MLA, Speaker of the (www.nationalassembly.gov.bz) Joint CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: AMERICAS AND THE Assembly Assembly Legislative Assembly Joint CPA Branch President: Senator Chester A. A. Humphrey, Hon. Farrel Smithen, MP, Shri Om Birla, MP, Speaker of the CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: ATLANTIC REGION Senator Lee Mark Chang, President of the Senate and Hon. President of the Assembly Lok Sabha Mr Chandra Shekhar Gangrade, Mr Yash Paul Sharma, Secretary Mr Awadesh Pratap Singh, President of the Senate and Hon. Michael Pierre, MP, Speaker of the CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: Secretary to the Legislature to the Legislature Secretary to the Legislature ANGUILLA Laura Tucker-Longsworth, House of Representatives Ms Myra A. Williams, Clerk of the Ms Snehlata Shrivastava, P: +91 771 228 3612 P: +91 177 2656 424 P: +91 755 244 0206 (www.gov.ai) MHR, Speaker of the House of CPA Branch Secretary: Assembly Secretary-General of Lok Sabha E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected] CPA Branch President: Representatives Mr Augustine Andrew, Clerk to P: +1 869 469 5521 P: +91 11 2301 7465 Hon. Terry Harrigan, MHA, E: [email protected] E: [email protected] [email protected] CPA Branch Secretary: Parliament JAMMU AND KASHMIR Speaker of the House of Assembly DELHI Mr Eddie Webster, Clerk to the P: +1 473 440 2090 The CPA Jammu and Kashmir MAHARASHTRA CPA Branch Secretary: ST LUCIA ANDHRA PRADESH (www.delhiassembly.nic.in) National Assembly E: [email protected] Branch is currently suspended. (http://mls.org.in) Mr Lenox Proctor, Clerk of the (www.govt.lc) (www.aplegislature.org) CPA Branch President: P: +501 8 222 141 Joint CPA Branch President: House of Assembly Joint CPA Branch President: Joint CPA Branch President: Hon. Ram Niwas Goel, MLA, E: [email protected] GUYANA JHARKHAND Shivajirao Deshmukh, MLC, P: +1 264 497 5081 Senator Hon. Jeannine Giraudy- Shariff Mohammed Ahmed, Speaker of the Legislative (http://parliament.gov.gy) Chairman of the Legislative (https://jharkhandvidhansabha. Chairman of the Legislative E: [email protected] BERMUDA McIntyre, President of the Senate Assembly CPA Branch President: Council and Hon. Thammineni nic.in) Council and Hon. Dilip Walse- (www.parliament.bm) and Hon. Andy Glenn Daniel, MP, CPA Branch Secretary: Hon. Dr Barton Scotland, MP, Seetharam, MP, Speaker of the CPA Branch President: Patil, MLA, Speaker of the ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA Joint CPA Branch President: Speaker of the House of Assembly Mr C. Velmurugan, Secretary to Speaker of the House Legislative Assembly Hon. Shri Dinesh Oraon, MLA, Legislative Assembly (https://ab.gov.ag) Senator Joan E. Dillas-Wright, CPA Branch Secretary: the Legislature CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: Speaker of the Legislative Assembly CPA Branch Secretary: Joint CPA Branch President: President of the Senate and Hon. Ms Lyndell Gustave, Clerk to P: +91 11 2389 0007 Mr Sherlock E. Isaacs, Clerk of P. P. K. Ramacharyulu, Secretary CPA Branch Secretary: Jitendra N. Bhole, Secretary to Hon. Alincia Williams-Grant, Dennis P. Lister, MP, Speaker of Parliament E: [email protected] the National Assembly to the Legislature Mr Mahendra Prasad, Secretary the Legislature President of the Senate and the House of Assembly P: +1 758 724 6468 [email protected] P: +592 226 84 589 P: +91 40 2323 3610 to the Legislature P: +91 22 2202 8217 Hon. Sir Gerald Watt, QC, CPA Branch Secretary: E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected] P: +91 651 244 0200 E: [email protected] MP, Speaker of the House of Ms Shernette Wolffe, Clerk to GOA ST VINCENT AND THE E: secy-jhvidhansabha@ Representatives the House of Assembly ARUNACHAL PRADESH (www.goavidhansabha.gov.in) JAMAICA GRENADINES jharkhandmail.gov.in MANIPUR CPA Branch Secretary: P: +1 441 292 7408 (www.arunachalpradesh.gov.in/ CPA Branch President: (https://japarliament.gov.jm) (http://assembly.gov.vc) (www.manipurassembly.net) Ms Alison Peters, Clerk to E: [email protected] state-assembly) Hon. Shri Rajesh Patnekar, MLA, Joint CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: KARNATAKA CPA Branch President: Parliament Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Senator Hon. Thomas Tavares- CPA Branch President: (www.kla.kar.nic.in) Hon. Shri Yumnam Khemchand BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS Hon. Jomo S. Thomas, MP, CPA Branch Secretary: P: +1 268 462 4822 Finson, President of the Senate Hon. Shri Wanglin Singh, MLA, Speaker of the Speaker of the House of Assembly Mr Nilkanth Subheder Joint CPA Branch President: E: [email protected] (www.bvi.gov.vg/house-assembly) Lowangdong, MP, Speaker of , Secretary and Hon. Pearnel Charles, MP, CPA Branch Secretary: Shri K. Pratapachandra Shetty, Legislative Assembly CPA Branch President: the Legislative Assembly to the Legislature Speaker of the House Ms Nicole Herbert, Clerk of the Chairman of the Legislative CPA Branch Secretary: THE BAHAMAS Hon. Julian Willock, MHA, CPA Branch Secretary: P: +91 832 241 0917 CPA Branch Secretary: House of Assembly Council and Shri Vishweshwar Mr Ramani Devi, Secretary to the (www.bahamas.gov.bs) Speaker of the House of Assembly M. Lasa, Secretary to Legislature E: [email protected] Ms Heather Cooke, Clerk to P: +1 784 451 2494 Hegde Kageri, MLA, Speaker of Legislature CPA Branch President: CPA Branch Secretary: P: +91 360 2244 346 Parliament E: [email protected] GUJARAT the Legislative Assembly P: +91 385 241 0452 Hon. Dewitt Halson Moultrie, Ms Phyllis Evans, Clerk of the E: [email protected] P: +1 876 922 020 07 [email protected] (www.gujaratassembly.gov.in) CPA Branch Secretary: E: [email protected] MP, Speaker of the House of House of Assembly E: [email protected] CPA Branch President: M. K. Vishalakshi, Secretary to Assembly P: +1 284 468 9801 ASSAM TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO Hon. Shri Rajendra S. Trivedi, the Legislature MEGHALAYA CPA Branch Secretary: E: [email protected] (www.assamassembly.gov.in) MONTSERRAT (www.ttparliament.org) MLA, Speaker of the Legislative P: +91 80 2225 0702 (www.megassembly.gov.in) Mr David Forbes, Clerk to CPA Branch President: CAYMAN ISLANDS CPA Branch President: Joint CPA Branch President: Assembly E: [email protected] CPA Branch President: Parliament Hon. Hitendra Nath Goswami, (www.legislativeassembly.ky) Hon. Shirley Osborne, MLA, Senator Hon. Christine CPA Branch Secretary: Hon. Shri Metbah Lyngdoh, MLA, P: +1 242 322 2041 Kangaloo, President of the MP, Speaker of Legislative KERALA CPA Branch President: Speaker of the Legislative Mr Devendrakumar M. Patel, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly E: [email protected] Senate and Hon. Bridgid Assembly (http://www.niyamasabha.org) Hon. Dr William McKeeva Assembly Secretary to the Legislature CPA Branch Secretary: Annisette-George, MP, Speaker CPA Branch Secretary: Bush, OBE, MLA, Speaker of the CPA Branch Secretary: P: +91 79 2325 3076 CPA Branch President: Mr Andrew Simons, Secretary to BARBADOS of the House of Representatives Mrigendra Kumar Deka, Hon. Shri P. Sreeramakrishnan, Legislative Assembly Ms Judith Jeffers-Baker, Clerk of E: [email protected] the Legislature (www.barbadosparliament.com) CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: Secretary to the Legislature MLA the Legislative Assembly [email protected] , Speaker of the Legislative P: +91 364 222 4268 Ms Jacqui Sampson-Meiguel, P: +91 361 226 1113 Joint CPA Branch President: Ms Zena Merren-Chin, Clerk of P: +1 664 491 2195 Assembly E: [email protected] Senator Hon. Sir Richard L. Clerk of the House E: [email protected] the Legislative Assembly E: [email protected] HARYANA CPA Branch Secretary: Cheltenham, QC P: +1 868 624 7275 [email protected] , President P: +1 345 949 4236 (http://haryanaassembly.gov.in) Mr C. Jos, Secretary to the MIZORAM of the Senate and Hon. Arthur E: [email protected] E: [email protected] ST KITTS AND NEVIS CPA Branch President: Legislature (www.mizoramassembly.in) [email protected] BIHAR E. Holder, MP, Speaker of the (www.parliament.gov.kn) P: +91 471 2305 834 CPA Branch President: DOMINICA (www.vidhansabha.bih.nic.in) Hon. Shri Gian Chand Gupta, House of Assembly CPA Branch President: MLA E: [email protected] Hon. Shri Lalrinliana Sailo, MLA, (http://houseofassembly.gov.dm) TURKS AND CAICOS CPA Branch President: , Speaker of the Legislative CPA Branch Secretary: Hon. Anthony Michael Perkins, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly CPA Branch President: (https://gov.tc/hoa) Hon. Vijay Kumar Choudhary, Assembly Mr Pedro E. Eastmond, Clerk to MP, Speaker of the National CPA Branch Secretary: Hon. Joseph Isaac, MHA, CPA Branch President: MLA, Speaker of Legislative CPA Branch Secretary: Parliament Assembly Mr Rajender Kumar Nandal S. R. Zokhuma, Secretary to the Speaker of the House of Assembly Hon. Dwayne Taylor, MHA, Assembly , P: +1 246 426 3717 CPA Branch Secretary: Legislature CPA Branch Secretary: Speaker of the House of Assembly CPA Branch Secretary: Secretary to the Legislature E: parliamentbarbados@ Ms Sonia Boddie-Thompson, P: +91 389232 2250 Mr Daniel James, Clerk of the CPA Branch Secretary: Bateshwar Nath Pandey, P: +91 172 2740 785 caribsurf.com Clerk of the National Assembly E: [email protected] House of Assembly Ms Tracey Parker, Clerk of the Secretary to the Legislature E: [email protected] P: +1 869 467 1159 P: +1 767 266 3291 House of Assembly P: +91 612 221 7840 E: [email protected] E: houseofassembly@dominica. P: +1 664 491 2195 E: [email protected] gov.dm E: [email protected] [email protected]

CPA Branch Directory Information correct as provided to CPA Headquarters Secretariat by CPA Branches at time of printing. A full listing of all CPA Branches SAMOA CPA SOUTH-EAST ASIA NEGERI SEMBILAN SARAWAK can be found in the CPA Directory at: www.cpahq.org/cpahq/directory. Please email any amendments to [email protected]. (www.palemene.ws) REGION CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: Hon. Lilah bin Haji Yassin, MP, Hon. Mohd Asfia Awang Hon. Le’aupepe Toleafoa Speaker of the State Legislature Nassar, MP, Speaker of the MALAYSIA NAGALAND SIKKIM UTTARAKHAND NAURU Fa’afisi, MP, Speaker of the CPA Branch Secretary: State Legislature (www.parlimen.gov.my) CPA Branch President: (www.sikkimassembly.org) (www.ukvidhansabha.uk.gov.in) (www.naurugov.nr/parliament- Legislative Assembly Mr Mohd Amin bin Ludin, CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch President: Hon. Shri Chotizuh Sazo, MLA, CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: of-nauru) CPA Branch Secretary: Secretary to the Legislature Mr Pele Peter Tinggom, Hon. Dato’ Mohamad Ariff bin Md Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Hon. Shri K. N. Rai, MLA, Speaker Hon. Shri Premchand Aggarwal, CPA Branch President: Mr Tiatia Graeme Tualaulelei, P: +606 230 7452 Secretary to the Legislature Yusof, Speaker of the House of CPA Branch Secretary: of the Legislative Assembly MLA, Speaker of the Legislative Hon. Marcus Stephen, MP, Clerk of the Legislative Assembly E: [email protected] P: +608 244 0796 / 244 0628 Representatives (Dewan Rakyat) Mr K. Sekhose, Secretary to the CPA Branch Secretary: Assembly Speaker of the Parliament P: +685 21811 E: [email protected] CPA Branch Chairperson: Legislature Mr G. P. Dahal, Secretary to the CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: E: [email protected] PAHANG Hon. Datuk Seri Shamsul P: +91 370 227 1507 Legislature Jagdish Chandra, Secretary to Ms Ann-Marie Cain, Clerk of the CPA Branch President: SELANGOR Iskandar bin Hj Mohd Akin, MP E: nagalandassembly2008@ P: +91 359 2203 654 the Legislature Parliament SOLOMON ISLANDS Hon. Ishak I. Muhammad, MP, CPA Branch President: CPA Branch Secretary: yahoo.com E: [email protected] P: +91 135 2666 444 P: +674 557 9270 (www.parliament.gov.sb) Speaker of the State Legislature Hon. Ng Suee Lim, MP, Speaker Hon. Noraini Ahmad, MP E: [email protected] E: [email protected] CPA Branch President: CPA Branch Secretary: of the State Legislature Secretary to the CPA Branch: ODISHA TAMIL NADU Hon. Patteson John Oti, MP, Mr Syed Ahmad Khirulanwar CPA Branch Secretary: Mrs Lavinia Vyveganathan (http://odishaassembly.nic.in) (www.assembly.tn.gov.in) WEST BENGAL NEW ZEALAND Speaker of the Parliament Alyahya, Secretary to the Gayathri Prasena A/P Jaya P: +603 2072 1955 / 2601 7222 CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: (www.wbassembly.gov.in) (www.parliament.nz) CPA Branch Secretary: Legislature Kumar, Secretary to the E: [email protected] Hon. Dr Surjya Narayana K. Hon. Shri Thiru P. Dhanapal, CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: Mr David Luta Kusilifu, Clerk of P: +609 512 6614 Legislature [email protected] Patro, MLA, Speaker of the MLA, Speaker of the Legislative Hon. Shri Biman Banerjee, MLA, Rt Hon. Trevor Mallard, MP, the Parliament E: [email protected] P: +603 5544 7613 Legislative Assembly Assembly Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Speaker of the Parliament P: +677 28520 / 23424 E: [email protected] JOHOR CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: E: [email protected] PENANG CPA Branch President: Mr Amiya Kumar Sarangi, Mr K. Srinivasan, Secretary to the Abhijit Som, Secretary to the Mr David Wilson, Clerk of the CPA Branch President: TERENGGANU Hon. Suhaizan Kaiat, MP, Secretary to the Legislature Legislature Legislature Parliament TONGA Hon. Law Choo Kiang, MP, CPA Branch President: Speaker of the State Legislature P: +91 674 2536 852 P: +91 44 2567 2611 P: +91 33 2248 0896 P: +64 4817 9999 / 9445 (www.parliament.gov.to) Speaker of the State Legislature Hon. Tengku Putera bin CPA Branch Secretary: E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected] CPA Branch President: CPA Branch Secretary: Tengku Awang, MP, Speaker of Ms Shubanah Binti Yusuf, Hon. Lord Fakafanua, Speaker Mr Maheswari Malayandy, the State Legislature Secretary to the Legislature PUDUCHERRY TELANGANA NIUE of the Parliament Secretary to the Legislature CPA Branch Secretary: P: +607 266 6176 / 1001 (www.py.gov.in) (www.telanganalegislature.org.in) (www.gov.nu) CPA Branch Secretary: P: +604 650 5155 Mr Zulkifli Bin Ali, Secretary to CPA PACIFIC REGION E: [email protected] CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: Ms Gloria L. Guttenbeil-Pole’o, E: [email protected] the Legislature Hon. Shri V. P. Sivakolundhu, Hon. Shri Pocharam Srinivas Hon. Togiavalu Pihigia, MP, Clerk of the Parliament P: +609 627 6237 COOK ISLANDS KEDAH DARULAMAN MLA, Speaker of the Legislative Reddy, MLA, Speaker of the (https://parliament.gov.ck) Speaker of the Parliament P: +676 24455 / 23565 PERAK E: [email protected] CPA Branch President: Assembly Legislative Assembly CPA Branch Secretary: E: [email protected] CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: Hon. Ahmad Kassim, MP, CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: Hon. Niki Rattle, Ms Cherie Morris-Tafatu, Clerk Hon. Dato’ Ngeh Koo Ham, MP, SINGAPORE Speaker of the Speaker of the State Legislature Mr S. Mohandass, Secretary to Mr V. Narasimha Charyulu, of the Parliament TUVALU Speaker of the State Legislature (www.parliament.gov.sg) Parliament CPA Branch Secretary: the Legislature Secretary to the Legislature P: +683 4364 CPA Branch President: CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch President: CPA Branch Secretary: Iqbal bin Ahmad, Secretary to P: +91 413 233 3462 P: +91 402 323 2072 Mr Tangata Vainerere E: Cherie.Morris-Tafatu@mail. Hon. Otinielu Tauteleimalae Mr Shahrul Azam bin Shaari, Hon. Tan Chuan-Jin, Speaker of , Clerk of the Legislature E: [email protected] E: [email protected] gov.nu Tausi, MP, Speaker of the Secretary to the Legislature the Parliament the Parliament P: +604 730 1957 Parliament P: +604 650 5155 CPA Branch Secretary: P: +682 79396 E: [email protected] PUNJAB (INDIA) TRIPURA E: tangata.vainerere@cookislands. PAPUA NEW GUINEA CPA Branch Secretary: E: [email protected] Mr Siow Peng Han, Deputy (www.punjabassembly.nic.in) (www.tripuraassembly.nic.in) (www.parliament.gov.pg) Ms Lakaaga Uniuni, Acting Clerk of Parliament gov.ck KELANTAN CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: CPA Branch President: Clerk of the Parliament PERLIS P: +65 6332 6666 CPA Branch President: Hon. Shri Rana Kanwar Pal Hon. Shri Rebati Mohan Das, FIJI Hon. Job Pomat, MP, Speaker of P: +688 20250 CPA Branch President: E: [email protected] Hon. Haji Ahmad Bin Ya’kub, MP, Singh, MLA, Speaker of the MLA, Speaker of the Legislative (www.parliament.gov.fj) the Parliament E: [email protected] Hon. Hamdan Bahari, MP, Speaker of the State Legislature Legislative Assembly Assembly CPA Branch Secretary: Speaker of the State Legislature CPA Branch President: CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: Hon. Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, Mr Kala Aufa, Clerk of the VANUATU CPA Branch Secretary: Zaika Yamani B. Ibrahim, Mrs Shashi Lakhanpal Mishra, Mr Bamdeb Majumder, Parliament (https://parliament.gov.vu) Mr Norazlan Yahaya, Secretary Speaker of the Parliament Secretary to the Legislature Secretary to the Legislature Secretary to the Legislature P: +675 327 7400 CPA Branch President: to the Legislature CPA Branch Secretary: P: +609 748 4123 P: +91 172 274 0786 P: +91 381 241 3446 Viniana Namosimalua E: [email protected] Hon. Seoule Esmon Saimon, P: +604 973 8990 , Secretary- E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: vidhansabha_tripura@ General of the Parliament MP, Speaker of the Parliament E: [email protected] rediffmail.com BOUGAINVILLE CPA Branch Secretary: [email protected] P: +679 322 5600 / 5811 MELAKA RAJASTHAN (www.abg.gov.pg/government/ Lino Bulekuli dit Sacsac, Clerk E: [email protected] CPA Branch President: (www.rajassembly.nic.in) UTTAR PRADESH parliament) of the Parliament SABAH Hon. Datuk Othman Bin CPA Branch President: (http://uplegisassembly.gov.in) KIRIBATI CPA Branch President: P: +678 222 29 CPA Branch President: Muhamad, MP, Speaker of the Hon. Shri C. P. Joshi, MLA, CPA Branch President: (www.parliament.gov.ki) Hon. Simon Pentanu, MP, E: [email protected] Hon. Panglima Salleh Tun Said State Legislature Speaker of the Legislative Hon. Shri Hriday Narayan Speaker of the House of Keruak, MP, Speaker of the CPA Branch President: CPA Branch Secretary: Assembly Dikshit, MLA, Speaker of the Representatives State Legislature Hon. Tebuai Uaai, MP, Speaker of Mr. Mohamad Samsi bin CPA Branch Secretary: Legislative Assembly CPA Branch Secretary: CPA Branch Secretary: the Parliament Kamarudin, Secretary to the Mr Dinesh Kumar Jain, Secretary CPA Branch Secretary: Mr Robert Tapi, Clerk of the Mr Shafaruddin Halide, CPA Branch Secretary: Legislature to the Legislature Mr Pradeep Kumar Dubey, Mr Eni Tekanene Parliament Secretary to the Legislature , Clerk of the P: +606 230 7452 P: +91 141 274 4326 Secretary to the Legislature P: +675 7395 2039 P: +608 244 0796 / 244 0628 Parliament E: [email protected] E: [email protected] P: +91 522 223 8208 E: [email protected] E: Shafaruddin.Halide@sabah. P: +686 7402 1880 [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected] gov.my

To subscribe to The Parliamentarian, please email [email protected] Members of Parliament: Please contact your CPA Branch Secretary for print and digital copies. Individual subscriptions also available.