100th year of publishing TheParliamentarian

Journal of the Parliaments of the Commonwealth 2019 | Volume 100 | Issue Four | Price £14

CONFERENCE ISSUE: 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Uganda

PLUS ‘Adaption, engagement, 64th CPC: Behind the scenes: How Commonwealth and evolution of Conference media management Scholarships: building Parliaments in a rapidly Workshops & boosted 64th CPC in a better future for changing Commonwealth’ Reports Uganda generations to come PAGES 274-283 PAGES 288-311 PAGE 344 PAGE 354

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 implement the enduring values of the Commonwealth. Calendar of Forthcoming Events Confirmed as of 11 November 2019 2020

6 to 11 January 25th Conference of the Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC), Canada. 15 to 19 January 7th CPA India Regional Conference, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India 21 to 23 January Commonwealth Association of Public Accounts Committees (CAPAC) Regional Workshop Series: Caribbean, Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago 29 to 31 January CPA Small Branches Sustainable Economic Development Workshop, Valetta, Malta

16 to 22 February Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians British Islands and Mediterranean Region Conference, Falkland Islands

Sunday 8 March International Women's Day Monday 9 March Commonwealth Day 17 to 19 March Commonwealth Association of Public Accounts Committees (CAPAC) Conference, London, UK

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

22 to 27 June Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), Kigali, Rwanda 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.

Further information can also be found at www.cpahq.org or by emailing [email protected].

CPA Parliamentary Fundamentals Programme Enrolment is now open for the CPA Parliamentary Fundamentals Programme - on the general course for Commonwealth Parliamentarians or the course specifically developed for Members from CPA Small Branches. Programmes are accredited with McGill University, Canada (Small Branches programme) and the University of Witwatersrand, South Africa (General programme). Programme includes: Online modules | Residential components | Teaching by world-class academics and parliamentary experts. PLACES AVAILABLE NOW FOR 2020 ENROLMENT To find out more visit www.cpahq.org/cpahq/cpafundamentals or email [email protected]

Updated August 2019 CONTENTS: THE PARLIAMENTARIAN 2019: ISSUE FOUR

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PAGES 288-311

The Parliamentarian: TH TH Journal of the Parliaments COMMENT & 64 CPC NEWS 64 CPC of the Commonwealth SPEECHES WORKSHOPS Volume 100 2019: Issue Four Editor’s Note 64th CPC Photo Gallery The Climate Change The Parliamentarian Page 272 Page 273 Debate: A Challenge for ISSN 0031-2282 the Commonwealth? th Opening address by 64 CPC News Conference Workshop A Issued and published by the the President of the News reports include: Page 288 International Secretariat of the Republic of Uganda • National Assembly of Commonwealth Parliamentary Opening of the 64th The Gambia re-joins CPA Innovation in Association (CPA), CPA th Commonwealth Parliamentary membership at 64 CPC Parliament: the Headquarters Secretariat, Conference • CPA Executive Committee impact of Science and Richmond House, Houses of Page 276 address key governance Technology on how Parliament, London issues ahead of 64th CPC Parliament works today SW1A 0AA, United Kingdom. Opening address by • New CPA Treasurer and Conference Workshop B the CPA President Vice-Chairperson confirmed Page 291 Tel: +44 (0) 20 7799 1460 th Rt Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, MP, at 64 CPC Email: [email protected] CPA President 2018-2019 and • CPA launches new online The Role of Parliament www.cpahq.org Speaker of the Parliament of professional development in Facilitating Persons Twitter @CPA_Secretariat the Republic of Uganda. programmes for parliamentary with Disabilities as Facebook.com/CPAHQ Page 278 staff with leading Electors, Candidates Commonwealth universities Mr Jarvis Matiya and Legislators Opening address by • CPA launches new handbook Conference Workshop C Acting Secretary-General the CPA Chairperson with British Red Cross on Page 294 Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, International Humanitarian Mr Jeffrey Hyland MP, Deputy Speaker of Law for Commonwealth Youth Roundtable: Editor, The Parliamentarian the National Assembly of Parliamentarians Strategies to Deal with [email protected] Cameroon. • CPA Regional Secretaries Youth Unemployment Page 280 from nine Regions meet Conference Workshop D Main images: CPA th ahead of 64 CPC in Uganda Page 297 Headquarters Secretariat. Pages 274-275, 281, 283-287 Opening address by Additional images: CPA Combating rapid Branches and Members. the CPA Headquarters Speech by Mr Jarvis Matiya, CPA Commonwealth urbanisation and rural Acting CPA Secretary-General. Lecture decline: A challenge for Page 282 Role of Commonwealth the Commonwealth Parliamentarians in maintaining Conference Workshop E security and stability in East Africa Page 300 Page 312

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Innovations in 37th CPA Small Branches Sixth triennial PARLIAMENTARY Parliament: The Conference Commonwealth Women REPORTS possible effects of • CPA Small Branches news and Parliamentarians (CWP) United Kingdom ‘Brexit’ election of new Chairperson Conference Parliamentary Report on CPA Small Branches • CPA Small Branches Session 1: • CWP at 64th CPC news Legislative reports from Conference Workshop F (Small Basing parliamentary • CWP at 30: Reflections by the Canada, the United Kingdom, Branches Topic) procedures and practices on the CWP founder New Zealand, Australia and Page 302 Westminster model • CWP Conference session 1: India. Pages 356-373 • CPA Small Branches Session 2: Importance of Mentoring for Innovation in Parliament: The New Parliamentarians Book Review Fostering a culture of Page 374 respect, fairness and possible effects of ‘Brexit’ on • CWP Conference session 2: dignity in Legislatures CPA Small Branches Promoting Women to CPA Organisational Conference Workshop G • CPA Small Branches Session 3: Leadership Positions and Structure Page 376 (Gender Topic) What Professional Development Senior Portfolios Page 304 and Training is required to • CWP Conference session 3: develop focused and talented Empowering Women as Annual subscription Parliamentarians? Effective Legislators in the 21st (four issues) The Role of Parliament UK: £44 inc. postage. in the doctrine of • CPA Small Branches Session 4: century Climate Change and the possible • CWP Conference session 4: Worldwide: £46 surface post Separation of Powers £52 airmail Conference Workshop H effects on CPA Small Branch Combating bullying Page 306 Economies and Development and harassment within Pages 314-325 Parliaments Price per issue Pages 326-340 UK: £14 Post-Legislative Worldwide: £15 surface post Scrutiny (PLS): a Commonwealth £16 airmail dimension of the Parliamentary Clerks CPA News oversight function of share best practice Pages 346-350 Disclaimer: Opinions and Parliament and innovations in comments expressed in articles Conference Workshop I Commonwealth Women and reviews published in The Parliaments Parliamentarian are those of Page 309 th Parliamentarians (CWP) 55 General Meeting of the the individual contributors and Society-of-Clerks-at-the-Table News should not be attributed to the How the updated (SoCATT) Pages 351-353 Secretariat of the Association. CPA Benchmarks for Pages 341-343 Democratic Legislatures Commonwealth Contributors: Thank you to all contributors for this issue. have been used to Behind the scenes: How Scholarships: building strengthen the capacity media management a better future for Printed in: United Kingdom by of CPA Legislatures boosted the 64th CPC in generations to come Warners Midlands, PLC; Conference Workshop J Uganda Page 354 New Delhi, India by Jainco Art Page 311 India; and Singapore by Times Page 344 Printers Private Limited.

The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing | 271 EDITOR’S NOTE

COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARIANS URGED TO UPHOLD DEMOCRATIC PRINCIPLES AT THE 64TH COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE IN UGANDA

The Editor’s Note

This special conference issue of The Parliamentarian features one of the their 37th annual conference prior to the 64th CPC in Uganda and, led largest annual gatherings of Commonwealth Parliamentarians, the 64th by Hon. Angelo Farrugia, MP, Chairperson of the CPA Small Branches Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC) in Kampala, Uganda and Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Parliament of from 22 to 29 September 2019, which addressed key global issues Malta, focused on the unique challenges affecting small Parliaments and solutions. Against a backdrop of greater scrutiny and Legislatures across the Commonwealth. The of Parliamentarians and the overall public trust CPA Small Branches Conference held thematic deficit in Parliaments, the CPA’s annual conference sessions for Members that discussed the building offered the opportunity for Members to benefit from of parliamentary capacity for CPA Small Branches professional development, supportive learning and and creating greater opportunities for the sharing of the sharing of best practice with colleagues from over knowledge and cooperation across the network. 180 Commonwealth Parliaments together with the Equal representation for women in Parliaments participation of leading international organisations. and gender empowerment was the focus for The overall main conference theme for the 64th the sixth triennial Commonwealth Women CPC was ‘Adaption, engagement, and evolution of Parliamentarians (CWP) Conference and Hon. Dr Parliaments in a rapidly changing Commonwealth’. Dato’ Noraini Ahmad, MP, CWP Chairperson led Delegates were welcomed by the President Jeffrey Hyland, Editor the workshop sessions over two days. The theme of the Republic of Uganda and Vice-Patron of the The Parliamentarian, of the CWP Conference was ‘CWP at 30 years: Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), Commonwealth Achievements and Unfinished Business – Looking His Excellency Yoweri K. Museveni who urged Parliamentary Association forward to the next 30 years’ in recognition of Commonwealth Parliamentarians to uphold democratic the CWP’s 30th anniversary in 2019. Over 100 principles as he opened the 64th CPC against the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians attended backdrop of Lake Victoria in Uganda. The President of Uganda also read the conference from across the Commonwealth. The CWP conference to delegates the goodwill message for the 64th CPC from Her Majesty saw leading figures in Commonwealth Parliaments addressing the Queen Elizabeth II, Patron of the CPA and Head of the Commonwealth. delegates and included four wide-ranging sessions for Commonwealth The 64th CPC was hosted by the CPA President (2018-2019), Women Parliamentarians. Rt Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda who This issue of The Parliamentarian also features a report from the welcomed Parliamentarians from around the Commonwealth and 55th General Meeting of the Society-of-Clerks-at-the-Table (SoCATT) spoke of Uganda’s pride at hosting the CPC for the second time, in Uganda where Commonwealth Parliamentary Clerks had the 52 years after first hosting the 13th Commonwealth Parliamentary opportunity to share best practice and innovations in Parliaments. Conference in 1967. The 64th CPC Conference Concluding Statement containing all of The Chairperson of the CPA Executive Committee, Hon. Emilia the outcomes and recommendations from the conference workshops is Monjowa Lifaka, MP, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of available online at: www.cpahq.org/cpahq/cpc2019concludingstatement. Cameroon spoke about the CPA’s role in connecting Parliamentarians and UK Education Minister, Rt Hon. Nick Gibb writes in this issue parliamentary staff in their quest for good governance and the enduring of The Parliamentarian about the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth values of the Commonwealth. The CPA Headquarters Secretariat was Scholarships and the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship represented by Mr Jarvis Matiya, CPA Acting Secretary-General who (CSFP) which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. spoke of the CPA’s work in the national and provincial, unitary, federal News and reports of many activities across the nine regions of the and territorial Parliaments of the Commonwealth. The CPA enables its CPA and CWP network are included in this issue. The Parliamentary Members to exchange views and deepen their understanding of their roles Report and Third Reading section in this issue includes parliamentary and responsibilities as the people’s representatives. and legislative news from Canada, British Columbia, India, New Workshops were held during the conference on a wide range of topics Zealand, the United Kingdom and Australia. including the role of Parliament in addressing the challenges of democracy; We look forward to hearing your feedback and comments on this climate change in the Commonwealth context; combating rapid urbanisation issue of The Parliamentarian and to receive your future contributions to and rural decline; the possible effects of United Kingdom ‘Brexit’; and the role this publication. of Parliament in facilitating persons with disabilities as electors, candidates and legislators. For the second time, a youth roundtable was held at the Jeffrey Hyland conference with Members of Parliament and local youth groups. Editor, The Parliamentarian Commonwealth Parliamentarians from the CPA Small Branches held [email protected]

272 | The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference Photo Gallery

Images from the 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference: For more images from the conference please visit the CPA Flickr website at www.cpahq.org/cpahq/ flickr where you can view, share and download images.

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President of Uganda urges Commonwealth Parliamentarians to uphold parliamentary democracy at 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference

The President of the Republic of Uganda and Vice-Patron of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), His Excellency Yoweri K. Museveni urged Commonwealth Parliamentarians to uphold democratic principles and the values of the Commonwealth as he opened the 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (64th CPC) for over 500 delegates in Kampala, Uganda. The President of Uganda spoke of the Commonwealth Association has traditionally been the Head of State having great potential through its common language or Government of the CPA Branch hosting the annual and opportunities for cooperation on trade, culture and Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference. governance. One of the largest annual gatherings of Commonwealth The President of Uganda said that one of the Parliamentarians, the conference addressed key Commonwealth’s greatest achievements are its global issues and solutions. Against a backdrop of democratic institutions and that the huge population of greater scrutiny of Parliamentarians, the CPA’s annual the Commonwealth – 2.4 billion people – offers great conference offered the opportunity for Members to opportunities to work together on trade, peace and benefit from professional development, supportive democracy. learning and the sharing of best practice with colleagues The President of Uganda also read the goodwill from over 180 Commonwealth Parliaments together with message to the conference from Her Majesty Queen the participation of leading international organisations. Elizabeth II, Patron of the Commonwealth Parliamentary The main conference theme for the 64th CPC was: Association and Head of the Commonwealth. Since 1989, ‘Adaption, engagement, and evolution of Parliaments in the Vice-Patron of the Commonwealth Parliamentary a rapidly changing Commonwealth’. The 64th CPC was hosted by the CPA President (2018-2019), Rt Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda who said at the opening ceremony: “The CPA annual conference was last in Uganda in 1967 when the CPA Uganda Branch hosted the 13th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference. The fact that it has taken 52 years to host this conference again might reflect the struggles Uganda’s fledgling democracy faced in the past. But those dark days are long behind us. We have since evolved to become one of the reliable members of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), internationally and regionally. I want to believe this is why we have been trusted

To read the 64th CPC Conference Concluding Statement please visit www.cpahq.org/cpahq/cpc2019concludingstatement.

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to host this landmark event again. We are delighted by the CPA Africa Region Chairperson, Rt Hon. Justin B. to be hosting the 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Muturi, MP, Speaker of the National Assembly of Kenya. Conference in 2019 and to welcome Parliamentarians During the 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary from across the Commonwealth. Parliamentarians are the Conference, there were also a number of additional bridge between the people and the government.” conferences and meetings including: 37th CPA Small The Chairperson of the CPA Executive Committee, Branches Conference; 6th triennial Commonwealth Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, MP, Deputy Speaker Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Conference; 64th of the National Assembly of Cameroon said: “The CPA General Assembly; meetings of the CPA Executive CPA connects, develops, promotes and supports Committee; and the 55th Society of Clerks at the Parliamentarians and parliamentary staff to identify Table (SOCATT) meetings. Elections were also held benchmarks of good governance and the implementation for the Chairperson of the Commonwealth Women of the enduring values of the Commonwealth. CPA Parliamentarians (CWP), the CPA Treasurer and the CPA activities focus on the Commonwealth’s commitment Small Branches Chairperson for new three-year terms to its fundamental political values, including: just and and the conference programme included conference honest government, the alleviation of poverty, fundamental workshops for Parliamentarians, with some workshops human rights, international peace and order, global focusing on gender, youth and the CPA’s Small Branches. economic development, the rule of law, equal rights The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) and representation for all citizens of both genders, organises its annual Commonwealth Parliamentary the separation of powers among the three branches Conference (CPC) to address global political issues of government and the right to participate in free and and developments in the parliamentary system democratic political processes.” through conference workshops and sessions for The CPA Headquarters Secretariat was represented leading Parliamentarians representing Parliaments and by Mr Jarvis Matiya, CPA Acting Secretary-General at Legislatures throughout the Commonwealth. These the opening ceremony of the conference and he said: plenary conferences were biennial from 1948 to 1959 “The CPA is a force for good on democracy, good and annual since 1961. A summary of the main views governance and development. It represents and connects expressed in conference debates is sent to Members, Commonwealth Parliaments, national and provincial, Commonwealth governments and international agencies unitary, federal and territorial, large and small. It enables Reports from all of the events and workshops at its Members to exchange views and deepen their the 64th CPC appear in this Conference issue of The understanding of their roles and responsibilities as the Parliamentarian. people’s representatives.” Further information about 64th CPC can be found at The vote of thanks on behalf of Parliamentarians and www.cpahq.org/cpahq/cpc2019 and for images of the parliamentary staff attending the conference was given conference please visit www.cpahq.org/cpahq/flickr.

64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference: CPA Flickr Images Albums: For images of the 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference please visit: www.cpahq.org/cpahq/flickr.

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64th COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE Kampala, Uganda 22 to 29 September 2019 Opening Ceremony - 26 September 2019 The President of the Republic of Uganda and Vice-Patron of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), His Excellency Yoweri K. Museveni.

On the behalf of the people of The newspapers in Uganda some arrangements with the EU involved the use of the hand-hoe, Uganda, I welcome you, the have been reminding us that that includes France. Maybe we blacksmithing, carpentry, clay-work members of the CPA, again, to the two controversial issues of could have arrangements with (okunogoora, kubuumba), etc.; and Uganda. You are most welcome. I that time were: the regime of the UK, even when they are out of beast muscle involved the use of say that I welcome you to Uganda, Ian Smith in Rhodesia and the the EU, as well as with the other donkeys, camels, horses, etc. again, because I was very much United Kingdom (UK) joining Commonwealth countries such as This use of human and beast here when you were here last, 52 the European Union (EU) and India, Canada, Australia, Pakistan, muscle meant low quantities of years ago. I was not in the meetings abandoning the Commonwealth etc.; but as the Continental Free production and low speeds in terms themselves. I was, however, 23 special economic arrangements. Trade Area (CFTA) - the whole of of activity. However, in the year 1438, years old at that time, a first-year Since that time, the issue of Africa, not portions of it. Johannes Gutenburg invented the student in the University of Dar-es- Rhodesia was unilaterally resolved However, unfortunately, much printing press. In the year 1698, Salaam and already a very active by Africa through the war of of this potential is clouded by Thomas Savery invented the steam student leader, leading the University liberation executed by ZANU and ideological disorientation, bigotry, engine for pumping water and in Students African Revolutionary ZAPU, supported by Africa and the egocentrism and myopia. A lot of the year 1823, George Stevenson Front (USARF). The meeting must socialist countries. It is good that time and energy is spent on the converted the steam engine to have taken place during the short the British government, under UK enterprise of some groups trying to the task of pulling railway engines. holiday because I remember I was in Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, control the destiny of other people. This constituted the First Industrial Uganda and not in Dar-es-Salaam. came in, last minute, to facilitate the This is wrong and unnecessary. Revolution. Since that time, portions I normally, tell my young Party/ transition with Lord Soames and History is our good teacher on this. of humanity have been through Movement comrades that what they those other arrangements. Man has been here for the last the Second and the Third Industrial call history, I call current affairs. Hence, The issue of the UK 4 and a half million years, ever since Revolutions. On account of some while for many of you the meeting membership in the EU is, of course, we evolved as wise primates known historical events, mainly precipitated that took place here 52 years ago is back in the news, with ‘Brexit’. The as homo sapiens, from the earlier by the internal weaknesses of Africa history, for me it is current affairs. people of the UK, through internal species. Right from the beginning, and also on account of external I would like to recognize the processes, have the capacity to the problems facing man were greed during the period when some support of Her Majesty Queen direct the destiny of that country. two: oppression of man by nature portions of humanity were being Elizabeth II, the Queen of the When I met Her Majesty The and oppression of man by fellow emancipated from the reliance on United Kingdom, who is the Queen in 1987, I told her that the men. Oppression of man by nature human and beast muscle power, Patron of the Commonwealth Commonwealth was an Association involved: floods, drought, disease, Africa was in the throes of the Parliamentary Conference (CPC). of great potential. With a population landslides, wild beasts, darkness, slave trade, colonialism and neo- Let me appreciate the CPA of 2.4 billion people, it is the only cold, etc., etc. Oppression of man by colonialism. Therefore, Africa, largely, Chairperson, Hon. Emilia Monjowa international organisation that I man involved: slavery, colonialism, missed out. Nevertheless, by a Lifaka and the CPA Secretary- attend, and I do not have to put neo-colonialism, fascism, etc. In a combination of factors, Africa, along General. I thank you all for the up with the inconvenience of recent speech in Japan, I pointed out with other colonized peoples in India, invitation to speak to you today. translation with ear appliances. that for much of the human history, Indonesia, Indo-China, Pakistan, etc., The host, Speaker of the We can communicate directly man could not ably tame nature on shook off the shackles of colonialism Parliament of Uganda, Rt. Hon. through the use of the English account of the limited knowledge and regained their freedom, the last Rebecca Kadaga, has been doing language. This is a phenomenon of by man as far as the scientific laws being South Africa in 1994. a lot in our country and through great potential if it is properly used. were concerned. Gradually, however, Now that colonialism has been the Commonwealth Parliamentary We could cooperate in security, man invented fire around 1.5 million defeated, our advice to friends is Association networks over the investments, culture and governance. years ago; started domesticating that egocentrism, greed and bigotry years. These efforts must be the Can we revive the preferential crops around 10,000 BC; started should be banished so that we use reason we are hosting the CPC in trade arrangements? Here in domesticating livestock around the the enhanced scientific knowledge Kampala today. I congratulate her, Africa, we are now committed to same time; and invented iron tools, of man to cause the universal the Members of Parliament and the CFTA, to COMESA and EAC. around 1200 BC. wellbeing of the whole of humanity the Uganda Secretariat of the CPA What preferential commercial Nevertheless, even with those without exception. Unfortunately, for successfully organising this arrangement could Africa have advances, man continued to greed continues to obstruct the conference and appreciate their with the UK, with France or with rely on human muscle and the mutually beneficial interaction within hard work. Portugal? Of course, we have muscle of beasts. Human muscle the different portions of the human

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which puppy will become a better attempts to coerce those people hunter when the puppies are old.” that have different ideas to be It is wiser for the world leaders like us. The Berlin Wall Blockade to respect the internal systems of of June 1948 - May 1949, the each country and influence others Korean War, the Vietnam War, the by example. It says in the Book of Cuban missile crisis of 1962, the Mathew: Chapter 5 verses 15-16: Hungarian uprising of 1956 and “Let your light so shine before men, its crushing by the Soviet forces, that they see your good deeds the Czechoslovakia uprising of and praise your Father in heaven.” 1968 and its crushing by the If our practices are correct, they Soviet forces, the Soviet invasion will thrive and spread. If they are of Afghanistan of 1979 and wrong, they will collapse. It is not the counter-intervention by the necessary to generate crisis on Western countries by supporting race and to block the optimum specialisation and exchange. By account of differences in ideology. the Mujahideen, the proxy wars use of scientific knowledge for the 1929, however, an irrationality had Let there be peaceful competition in Angola, etc., etc., led to a lot of universal benefit of man as a whole. already been detected in capitalism. among different ideas. wastage of resources and life. Many Artificial conflicts, propelled by greed Maximization of profits meant The right one will emerge. When of them ended with unintended or ignorance, always cause avoidable minimization of costs, which, at Karl Marx wrote his Communist consequences. Yet, we have seen losses and waste time. This greed that time, included minimization of Manifesto in 1848, there was not bad systems collapsing by their own and ignorance obscure the facts and wages. Low wages meant also low a single socialist country in the dynamics, without external pressure. impede human co-operation. purchasing power. Low purchasing world. However, he pointed out The collapse of the Shah of Iran, the The other night, on the 24th power meant low demand for the that ‘socialism’ was in “womb of collapse of the Emperor of Ethiopia, September, at the reception of the products of capitalism. The capitalist capitalism”. In 1917, a Socialist- the collapse of the communist Chinese, I pointed out that Karl efficiency in the production of goods Communist Revolution took place in system of Eastern Europe, etc., Marx, in 1848, pointed out that up to and services had to be balanced the Soviet Union. In 1949, in China. were not caused by wars from that time, in the 4 and a half million with the commensurate purchasing In 1959, in Cuba. In the 1930s and, outside, but by internal weaknesses. years of human existence here power; otherwise, the system would thereafter, the capitalist societies When capitalism was challenging on earth, man had gone through collapse. of Western Europe borrowed the feudalism, one of the European four social systems: the primitive That is how some economists socialist tools of the Welfare State, leaders, Metternich, tried to use war, communalism system (some of like [John] Maynard Keynes came where free money was given by if I remember right; but ended up it still being practiced by some up with the socialist idea of the the State to lubricate the wheels bringing ruin to Austria-Hungary. forest dwelling groups in Africa Welfare State, where the State of capitalism by bolstering the On the other hand, we can and the Amazon); the slave state would give free money to the purchasing power of society. see today that China is still (like ancient Rome); feudalism; citizens to enable them to buy the As members of the a communist country with a and capitalism. Of the four social products of the capitalist factories. Commonwealth, we all share the governance system different systems witnessed by man up to By that hybridization, the principles of democracy according from the one we use in the that time, the only rational ones challenge to capitalism of the to the principles of the Harare Commonwealth countries. The were the primitive communal disequilibrium between the Declaration on Democracy of countries of the world by working system and the capitalist system. productive capacity of the capitalism October 1991. Nevertheless, peacefully with China, our social The slave system and the feudal and the aggregate demand of the the forms of democracy are also and political system being different systems were restrictive, exploitative market, was transcended. Countries different although the substance notwithstanding, have done a lot and irrational. like China have further pushed must be the same: one person, of good to China and to the world. Capitalism, by emphasizing forward the strategy of market one vote, by secret ballot at regular I have quoted these historical the minimization of costs in order socialism. As a consequence of this intervals. Those are the principles examples because I have noticed to maximize profits, brought hybridization, the world has seen of the Commonwealth. How, absence of serious scrutiny of rationalisation into the production greater prosperity than in 1929 then, should the Commonwealth historical phenomena and learning process. Also, by rewarding initiatives, when capitalism faced the challenge members deal with the other for them. Recently, I met a British it unleashed the productivity of of the disequilibrium between countries that are not members of lady in South Africa, and she said society. In recent times, you have production and consumption. the Commonwealth and who may that she was heading an OECD seen how people like Bill Gates of I am quoting this example so have different social and political think tank. I joked with her by Microsoft and [Mark] Zuckerberg as to advise the members of the systems - Communist, Islamicist, asking: “How can we have no of Facebook, through introducing Commonwealth using one of our etc.? My advice is what I have thinking with so many think tanks new technologies, have both built up proverbs: It says “Oyorora zoona, already said above. “Let our light so in the world?” I invited her to come a lot of wealth but also empowered tomanya erahigye.” The translation shine before men, that they see our to Uganda and see whether we society more. This has been the story is: “When the dog puppies are good deeds and praise our Father can jointly attempt to think. We of capitalism in the last 300 years in young, you should feed all of them in heaven.” had the Commonwealth think tank some parts of the Globe - innovation, equally because you do not know We should not create crises in in London, the Smart Partnership

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Continued: The President th of the Republic of Uganda’s 64 COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE speech: Kampala, Uganda hub, led by Dr Michaela Smith. It 22 to 29 September 2019 did not get enough support from the Commonwealth. Uganda struggled to support the hub Opening Ceremony - 26 September 2019 alone. I have not got the latest on that effort. In conclusion, therefore, my CPA PRESIDENT AND SPEAKER OF UGANDA’S view is that the Commonwealth TH countries, in substance, are OPENING ADDRESS AT 64 COMMONWEALTH democratic countries, albeit with variations in form; and this is a PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE great achievement. Secondly, the Commonwealth countries could use their numbers Rt Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, MP, CPA President 2018-2019 and to mutually promote investments, Speaker of the Parliament of the Republic of Uganda. work together on security, work on cultural exchanges and also examine the options on trade without disturbing the CFTA On behalf of the Parliament Commonwealth Parliamentary silence in honor of the absence of arrangements in Africa. of Uganda and on behalf of all Association (CPA), internationally the Commonwealth family. Thirdly, peacefully work Ugandans, I warmly welcome and regionally. I want to believe In a special way, let me with all countries of the world you to the Pearl of Africa. this is why we have been trusted appreciate our host President irrespective of their internal social You are welcome to the 64th to host this landmark event again. and Deputy Patron of the 64th systems for mutual advantage Commonwealth Parliamentary As the President-Designate Commonwealth Parliamentary and on the basis of respecting the Conference, which Uganda of the CPA 2018-2019, I am Conference, His Excellency sovereignty of each country. is extremely proud to host excited to welcome delegates President Yoweri Museveni, Fourthly, promote the spread again. The country last played and legislators from the for the support towards the of the benefits of scientific host to the 13th gathering of Commonwealth regions across organisation of this conference. innovation because, like in all Commonwealth Parliamentarians the different continents. We have He has supported the Uganda ages, the advances in science in 1967. Our neighbours Kenya national, state, provincial and Parliament to host CPA Africa and technology, have always have had occasion to host it three territorial legislatures represented Region Conferences including been the primers of change in times, so we are glad to finally here. We all stand as brothers the CSPOC Africa Region in society for good or for evil; but join that table. and sisters with equal say in 2009, Commonwealth Women this time insisting that those The fact that it has taken 52 this body of Parliamentarians, Parliamentarians Africa Region in advances are only for good and years to host this conference regardless of size or economic 2010, the 4th CPA Africa Youth never for evil. again might reflect the struggles strength. But having said this, I Conference in 2018, as well as Fifthly, the protection of Uganda’s fledgling democracy note with sadness the absence the CHOGM in 2007. the environment must remain, faced in the past. But those dark of The Bahamas, who suffered The CPA Uganda Branch is not only a core point of our days are long behind us. We have a disastrous hurricane leading to grateful to the CPA Secretariat commitment but also a basis of since evolved to become one loss of hundreds of lives. I request for the logistical and advisory our agreed point of action. The of the reliable members of the us to stand up for a moment of support in the months leading up oppression of man by nature can to this event. be solved by the use of science I want to report that the throughout the whole round. Uganda Branch Members and The oppression of man by man Secretariat have worked tirelessly is always better resolved by the to ensure that everything is in affected communities, in some order, and I would like to thank extreme situations supported by them for their efforts. appropriate external solidarity. Before I delve into the This is what we did with theme of this conference, allow apartheid and colonialism. me to heartily congratulate I thank you. It is now my the Commonwealth Women honour to open the Conference Parliamentarians on marking 30 and to wish you fruitful years of great work, raising the deliberations. voices of women in positions of

278 | The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing ADAPTION, ENGAGEMENT, AND EVOLUTION OF PARLIAMENTS IN A RAPIDLY CHANGING COMMONWEALTH authority. Thank you for fostering of our citizens. We should not gender mainstreaming in the forget the ever-growing numbers membership and processes in of refugees, distressed persons, our Legislatures. stateless persons in our countries. The last time the CPC As Parliamentarians, we are convened in Uganda in 1967, the the bridges between Government CWP was not yet in existence. and the people. They, therefore, I also would like to inform the rely on us to speak for them and to delegates that as part of our plan for them a future that is better history, we have made available than the present and the past. pullouts of the 1967 Conference. This conference theme awakens I believe delegates might be us as elected representatives of interested to know what the the people, to adapt, engage and topical issues were raised by your evolve to match the challenges that representatives then. we face. Fellow delegates, the theme Our workshops, roundtables, Democratic Legislatures, which efforts to create a better today of this year’s conference is TED-style talks and mentoring help strengthen Parliaments in and a greater tomorrow for us all. ‘Adaption, engagement, and sessions will give us opportunity light of current commitments, A lot of work has gone on in evolution of Parliaments in a rapidly to reflect on how we tackle such as the SDGs. the last few years in preparation changing Commonwealth’. A lot is these problems. How do we Following the good example for the 64th CPC, I want to changing in our nations, from the maximize our core functions set in Bangladesh in 2017, this take this opportunity to thank demographic characteristics to of representation, legislation, year we shall again have the youth you, Your Excellency, for the the diversities of race, belief and oversight and budget roundtable, whereby we seek to overall security and safety. I people’s needs. appropriation? Our mandate include young people in decision also thank the armed forces, There is a growing places us in the centre of making, and mentor future leaders the Commander of the Chief focus on greater scrutiny of finding solutions that work; and of the Commonwealth. They will of Defence Forces, the Police Parliamentarians, coupled with translating promises, strategies discuss strategies to deal with Officers with the command of the a demand for accountability and and laws into action. youth unemployment, in addition to Inspector General of Police, the transparency. At the same time, One of our assignments as sharpening their debate skills and Director General of Internal and the public trust in Parliaments is national Parliaments towards building networks with each other. External Security, the Clerk to flagging in most countries, yet achievement of the United Through all these Parliament and the Staff. the people increasingly expect Nations Agenda 2030, we deliberations, I urge us to share I commend further the more from their representatives. are expected to promote, plan our key lessons and pick up the tremendous work done by the In truth, it is not only the for and monitor the effective best practices to implement, Members of Parliament through Commonwealth that is rapidly implementation of the Sustainable for the good of our people, our all the Committees that has changing; one just has to read or Development Goals (SDGs). Most nations and indeed our mother brought us to where we are today. watch the news to see that the of the discussions during this planet earth. I invite you to enjoy your stay rest of the world is experiencing conference fit in with the SDGs. I Let us remember in Uganda. Please make the time the same growing pains. With know that most Commonwealth that, as one of the oldest to explore more and discover globalization trends, International Parliaments have updated their established organisations why it was indeed named the borders increasingly seem like processes and missions to match in the Commonwealth, the Pearl of Africa. Thank you for mere demarcations, and the this Agenda, and it will be exciting Commonwealth Parliamentary your attention. For God and my challenges we face cut across learning from one another’s Association will continue to be country! boundaries. We are faced by experiences. an invaluable player in the world’s threats that do not know the The conference topics colour of our skins, our creeds, include the concern about our poverty, wealth, or political rapid unplanned urbanization; affiliations. terrorism; the efficacy of Some of the major issues we Parliament interventions on are forced to confront include: climate change; science and climate change, individual and technology innovations that group terrorism, hunger and enable Parliaments to work malnutrition, old and new disease smarter; our role in facilitating epidemics; local and regional persons with disabilities in politics; conflicts; and the rising frequency as well as sexual harassment and cost of natural and man- in Legislatures. We shall also made disasters. These threaten discuss the updated CPA the present and future wellbeing Recommended Benchmarks for

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64th COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE Kampala, Uganda 22 to 29 September 2019

Opening Ceremony - 26 September 2019 CPA CHAIRPERSON’S OPENING ADDRESS AT 64TH COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE

Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, MP, Chairperson of the CPA Executive Committee and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of Cameroon.

‘Hujambo!’ Good Morning! It is very well taken care of. and there is still more space for For those who are attending for me a great joy and honour • Mr President, the logistical women. this event for their very first time, to address these eminent arrangements which was Her strength and willingness may I briefly say that the CPA, personalities, delegates and put in place to give this event to do so much come undoubtably which was founded in 1911, participants assembled here the grandeur it deserves has from your encouragements and comprises some 180 national in Kampala, Uganda, land of been exceptional. the good will of your Government and sub-national Branches agriculture, land of the Equator • Mr President, your country to encourage women and young and seeks to promote the and land of the great lake, for the is beautiful, your people are girls to be at the forefront of advancement of parliamentary opening ceremony of the 64th very hospitable, and decision making in your country. democracy by enhancing Commonwealth Parliamentary • Mr President, Speaker We all know that cannot be any knowledge and understanding Conference. Kadaga has been a meaningful development without of democratic governance. Before I procced, permit me wonderful host under your the involvement of women. The CPA connects, develops, to use this opportunity to convey guidance. Speaker Kadaga, I wish to promotes and supports to Your Excellency Yoweri Your Excellency, my thank you for being an inspiration Parliamentarians and their Museveni, President of the colleagues have asked me to to the younger generation of staff to identify benchmarks Republic of Uganda and Vice- tell you thank you. Sometime in aspiring female politicians and of good governance and the Patron of the CPA, on behalf of the past people usually said: ‘I also thank you and your team for implementation of the enduring the entire CPA family, our sincere came, I saw and I conquer.’ But being there since we arrived. values of the Commonwealth. thanks and gratitude for taking today, we, the CPA delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen, we CPA activities focus on the time off your busy schedule are saying ‘we came, we saw are delighted to be here and do Commonwealth’s commitment to to be personally present here and we are going to be Honorary request that you join me to say its fundamental political values, today alongside the eminent Ambassadors of Uganda when congratulations to the Government including - just and honest personalities accompanying we go back to our respective and Parliament of Uganda for this government, the alleviation of you to officiate in the official Regions and, why not, Branches.’ excellent organisation. poverty, fundamental human Opening Ceremony of the 64th We thank you once more Commonwealth Parliamentary for agreeing to host this 64th Conference taking place in Commonwealth Parliamentary Kampala, Uganda. Your presence Conference in Kampala. here today, Your Excellency, is With your permission, Your proof to your commitment to the Excellency, permit me to say core values of the CPA. thank you to this great Ugandan Mr President, let me on behalf woman called Rebecca Kadaga, of all of us gathered here today from whom many of us have tell you about some of the things drawn inspiration. When she that have taken place since we entered the room, she did not arrived in this beautiful city of close the door behind her, she Kampala. left it wide open for many of us • Mr President, we have been to come in. We have entered

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electors, candidates and legislators; strategies to deal with youth unemployment; innovation in Parliament and the possible effects of the United Kingdom’s ‘Brexit’ on Small Branches; fostering a culture of respect, fairness and dignity: sexual harassment has no place in Legislatures; among others. You will agree with me that the provision of appropriate solutions to the aforementioned issues will significantly contribute to solving some of the world’s most challenging problems. This conference is therefore of the utmost importance as the world is anxiously waiting for its outcome. May I urge delegates and participants to make significant and constructive inputs that will meet our expectations and take the CPA and the entire world forward. On this note, I once more rights, international peace political process. notably: climate change: thank His Excellency Yoweri and order, global economic You must have noted from achievements, challenges Museveni, President of the development, the rule of law, our detailed programme that this and efficacy of Parliaments Republic of Uganda, for coming equal rights and representation conference is placed under the intervention; innovation in to open this conference and wish for all citizens of both genders, theme ‘Adaption, engagement Parliament; the impact of participants fruitful deliberations. the separation of powers and evolution of Parliaments in a science and technology on how Long live the Republic of among the three branches of rapidly changing Commonwealth’. Parliament works today; the Uganda! Long live the CPA! government and the right to The conference will also address role of Parliament in facilitating Long live the Commonwealth of participate in free and democratic other topical issues in workshops persons with disabilities as Nations!

CPA Regional Secretaries from nine Regions meet ahead of 64th CPC in Uganda

The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Chairperson, Hon. Emilia Lifaka, MP, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of Cameroon met with the CPA Regional Secretaries representing nine CPA Regions across the Commonwealth – Africa; Asia; Australia; British Islands and Mediterranean; Canada; Caribbean, Americas and Atlantic; India; Pacific; South-East Asia – in Kampala, Uganda ahead of the 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference.

64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference: CPA Flickr Images Albums: For images of the 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference please visit: www.cpahq.org/cpahq/flickr.

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64th COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE Kampala, Uganda 22 to 29 September 2019

Opening Ceremony - 26 September 2019

CPA HEADQUARTERS SECRETARIAT OPENING ADDRESS AT 64TH COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE Speech by Mr Jarvis Matiya, Acting Secretary-General, Commonwealth Parliamentary Association.

Allow me to extend a hearty Branch Executive Committee; the and staff in order to strengthen a guide on how a Parliament welcome to you all on this Clerk of the Parliament of Uganda, the institution of Parliament and should be constituted and how auspicious occasion of the Mrs Jane Kibirige and her team democratic governance. it should function in line with official opening of the 64th for the excellent arrangements At this Conference, we will be values and principles of the Commonwealth Parliamentary and warm hospitality accorded to launching online programmes Commonwealth Charter on Conference whose theme is the delegates since their arrival in for parliamentary staff which the development of free and ‘Adaption, engagement, and Uganda. were developed in collaboration democratic societies. evolution of Parliaments in a The host Branch has worked with King’s College of the United The CPA also enables its rapidly changing Commonwealth’. so tirelessly preparing for this Kingdom and McGill University Members to exchange views, I wish to place on record our Conference and ensuring that of Canada. This programme is make connections and deepen thanks and appreciation to His all logistical and administrative very much in line with the theme understanding of their roles and Excellency Yoweri Museveni, arrangements were in place of this Conference - ‘Adaption, responsibilities as representatives President of Uganda, for gracing so that we have a successful engagement, and evolution of of the people. The 64th this event this morning, and to Conference. Indeed, it has been a Parliaments in a rapidly changing Commonwealth Parliamentary our host the Speaker of the total pleasure to enjoy the warm Commonwealth’. Conference being inaugurated Uganda Parliament, Rt Hon. hospitality of the people of the As part of benchmarking, today, provides a platform for such Rebecca Kadaga, who is also ‘Pearl of Africa’. The CPC was in 2006, the CPA developed conversations to take place. CPA President Designate; Hon last here in Uganda 52 years ago. the CPA Recommended In the next two days, Members Bintu Lukumu Jalia, MP, the So this conference is a significant Benchmarks for Democratic will participate in ten workshop Chairperson of the CPA Uganda moment in the history of Uganda Legislatures. These Benchmarks sessions as part of learning as well as the CPA. reinforce the belief that effective and development as endorsed “Indeed, it has been The CPA is a force for Parliaments are one of the at the 63rd Commonwealth good on democracy, good principal institutions of any Parliamentary Conference which a total pleasure to governance and development. It functioning democracy, and was held in Dhaka, Bangladesh enjoy the warm represents and connects national provide a minimum standard and in November 2017. The thematic and provincial assemblies, hospitality of the presidential and Westminster people of the ‘Pearl systems, unitary and federal states, large and small nations. of Africa’. The CPC The CPA develops and was last here in supports its Members and Uganda 52 years ago. parliamentary staff to promote knowledge and best practice So this conference is in enhancing the work of a significant moment Parliaments. Through its activities, the CPA reaches out in the history of to its membership to support the Uganda as well as implementation of programmes the CPA.” aimed at upskilling its Members

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focus of these workshops will be on wide ranging subjects such National Assembly of The Gambia re-joins as disability rights, the role of Commonwealth Parliamentary Association membership Parliaments in tackling climate th change, innovation and ICT in at 64 Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference Parliament, youth unemployment, It is announced that the National urbanisation and rural decline just Assembly of The Gambia has to mention a few. rejoined the membership of the Commonwealth Heads of Commonwealth Parliamentary Government have recognised Association (CPA). The 64th that Parliaments and Legislatures CPA General Assembly, meeting are essential pillars of democratic in Kampala, Uganda at the 64th governance and have endorsed Commonwealth Parliamentary the efforts and initiatives of Conference, approved the the CPA as the parliamentary application from the National partner of the Commonwealth’s Assembly of The Gambia to governmental and non- reconstitute the Gambia Branch of governmental sectors. Within the CPA following their application the Commonwealth family, we to re-join. Parliamentary Association. We are back all commit ourselves to shared The Deputy Speaker of the House of to where we belong, and we are ready to values and principles, and these the National Assembly of The Gambia, contribute to the strengthening of the core shape both our collective goals Hon. Momodou Lamin K. Sanneh attended values of the CPA.” and our collective responsibility in the 64th CPA General Assembly as The Chairperson of the CPA Executive our pursuit of development. an observer and said in a statement to Committee, Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, These include free and fair delegates: “I bring warm greetings from MP, Deputy Speaker of the National elections, human rights, the rule the friendly people of The Gambia, the Assembly of Cameroon said: “The return of law, separation of powers, smiling coast of West Africa. We are of the CPA Gambia Branch will be and tolerance, respect and indeed very grateful to be invited to the 64th welcomed by all of the CPA’s membership understanding. Deep-rooted in Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference as it demonstrates the CPA’s commitment the Commonwealth approach after five years of absence. It could be to good governance and parliamentary is the ideal of learning from recalled that the former President of The strengthening in all of its nine regions. one another. That is what Gambia unilaterally withdrew The Gambia As the CPA Chairperson, I look forward Commonwealth conferences like from the Commonwealth in 2013. The to building new links with the Branch this are all about: to strengthen 2016 election ushered in a new coalition to advance the CPA’s parliamentary networks, to share, to exchange, government under President Adama development goals. The return of the to be mutually supportive. Barrow. Since coming to power, the new Gambia Branch of the CPA strengthens Indeed, parliamentary government has worked on the restoration our network and serves as a testament to links, forged and continually of diplomatic ties with partners. the success of the CPA as a leader in the strengthened through the In 2018, The Gambia was readmitted field of parliamentary development.” work of the Commonwealth to the Commonwealth. This paved the way The Gambia re-joined The Parliamentary Association for The Gambia to seek readmission to Commonwealth in February 2018, almost over many decades, can be the various Commonwealth associations five years after leaving the organisation and seen as among the most including the Commonwealth were invited to attend the Commonwealth powerful practical illustration of Parliamentary Association. Following the Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) Commonwealth nations joining change of government in 2016, the CPA in April 2018 in London, UK. Previously, together freely and voluntarily in UK Branch has been instrumental in our The Gambia first joined the CPA in 1949. an enduring relationship. parliamentary reforms. The CPA Gambia The National Assembly of The Gambia As I conclude, allow Branch is indeed happy to be welcomed applied to re-join the CPA in 2018 and this me to thank sincerely the back to the CPA. We want to thank all was received by the 2018 Mid-Year CPA CPA Chairperson, the CPA CPA member Branches, especially the Executive Committee Meeting in Mauritius. Coordinating Committee, the CPA Executive Committee and the CPA The application to re-join the CPA by CPA Executive Committee President, Hon. Speaker of Uganda for the National Assembly of The Gambia and, of course, my colleagues giving due consideration to our application was approved by the 64th CPA General at the CPA Headquarters for readmission to the Commonwealth Assembly in September 2019. Secretariat who worked so hard collaboratively with the staff 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC): CPA Flickr Images of the Uganda Parliament in Albums: For images of the 64th CPC please visit: www.cpahq.org/cpahq/flickr. preparing for this Conference.

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CPA Executive Committee address key governance issues for the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association ahead of 64th CPC

The Executive Committee of the Commonwealth The Chairperson of the CPA International Executive Parliamentary Association (CPA) met ahead of the 64th Committee said: “The Commonwealth Parliamentary Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Kampala, Association (CPA) provides a unique platform for inter- Uganda. The CPA Executive Committee represents the parliamentary dialogue to take place. The Commonwealth nine regions of the CPA - Africa; Asia; Australia; British Parliamentary Association’s membership not only Islands and Mediterranean; Canada; Caribbean, Americas comprises national Parliaments of the Commonwealth, but and Atlantic; India; Pacific; South East Asia. The Executive also provincial and state Legislatures as well as devolved Committee is chaired by Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, MP, Assemblies. The diverse nature of the membership Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of Cameroon. provides the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association with a unique position within the parliamentary community to offer a comprehensive perspective on how to strengthen parliamentary democracy Commonwealth-wide and discuss new and innovative approaches on how to do so. The 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference is the most prominent event in the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association’s calendar, as it offers a unique opportunity for the representatives of the Association’s 180 Member Parliaments and Legislatures to network with colleagues from other jurisdictions and discuss common issues of concern which affect Commonwealth Parliaments. The workshops for this year’s conference will discuss a wide range of topics such as the challenges of climate change; innovation in Parliament: the impact of science and technology on how Parliament works today; the role of Parliament in facilitating persons with disabilities as electors, candidates and legislators; strategies to deal with youth unemployment; the role of Parliament in the doctrine of separation of powers: enhancing transparency and accountability.”

To read the 64th CPC Conference Concluding Statement please visit www.cpahq.org/cpahq/cpc2019concludingstatement.

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New CPA Treasurer and CPA Vice-Chairperson confirmed at 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Uganda

During the 64th CPA General Assembly which took place Members of the Executive at the 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Committee to the position Uganda, CPA Members endorsed the appointment of Hon. of Vice-Chairperson. The Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin, MP (Malaysia) as position of Vice-Chairperson the new CPA Treasurer. The Treasurer, who is a Member of is for a term of one year and the Association nominated by the CPA Executive Committee, the holder is also a Member is appointed for three years by the General Assembly and of the CPA Co-ordinating works with the CPA Headquarters Secretariat to monitor the Committee. finances of the Association. The CPA Treasurer also joins the Hon. John Ajaka, MLC Trustees board of the Association. has been President of Hon. Datuk Seri Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin, MP is a the Legislative Council of Member of Parliament for Hang Tuah Jaya constituency in New South Wales since Malaysia since 2013. He is the Information Chief for the 2017. He holds several government party, People’s Justice Party (KEADILAN). In positions at the Parliament of New South Wales including 2018, he was appointed as the Federal Deputy Minister at Chair of the Procedure Committee and has held several the Ministry of Primary Industries with responsibility for the portfolios including Minister for Ageing; Disability Services; industrialisation and plantation of various commodities such and Multiculturalism. He was also Deputy Leader of the as palm oil, sago, kenaf, peppercorn, timber and cocoa. Government in the Legislative Council. Prior to entering He actively participates in international organisations and Parliament, he was a is currently the Chairperson of the CPA Malaysia Branch practicing solicitor at the and a board member of the Parliamentary Network on The New South Wales Supreme World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF). The Court; and the High Court Parliamentary Network is a platform for Parliamentarians of Australia. around the globe to advocate for increased accountability Outside politics, he is and transparency in international financial institutions an active supporter of the and multilateral development financing. Before he joined Rotary Club, the Lions politics, he was an Advocate and Solicitor in the High Club and Sydney Lebanon Court of Malaya. Chamber of Commerce; The 64th CPA General Assembly was followed by a a Member of Army School meeting of the new CPA Executive Committee during Cadets and Army Reserve; which Hon. John Ajaka, MLC, President of the Legislative and interests include boxing Council of New South Wales in Australia was confirmed by and rugby league.

Parliamentary delegation from Somaliland attend 64th CPC in Uganda A parliamentary delegation from Somaliland led by Deputy Speaker, Hon. Ahmedyasin Ali met the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Chairperson, Hon. Emilia Lifaka, MP (Cameroon) in the margins of the 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Uganda to hear about the work of the Association.

64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference: CPA Flickr Images Albums: For images of the 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference please visit: www.cpahq.org/cpahq/flickr.

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CPA launch new online professional development programmes for parliamentary staff with leading Commonwealth universities at 64th CPC

The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) has launched new online professional development programmes for parliamentary staff that have been developed and will be delivered in collaboration with the School of Continuing Studies at McGill University, Canada and the International School for Government at King’s College, London. The CPA launched the new online programmes at a reception for Parliamentary Clerks and officials in the margins of the 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC) in Kampala, Uganda. Ms Meenakshi Dhar on behalf of the CPA Headquarters Secretariat said: “The launch of Studies at McGill University, Canada on a number of seminars the new online professional development programmes for and programmes for both Members and parliamentary staff parliamentary staff will further develop the aims of the CPA in for many years and these new online programmes will also advancing parliamentary democracy by enhancing knowledge be developed with new partner, the International School for and understanding of democratic governance. We are Government at King’s College, London. especially honoured to be working alongside two prestigious A CPA presentation about the new online programmes Commonwealth universities to provide these online was given at the 55th Meeting of the Society-of-Clerks-at- programmes for parliamentary staff within the CPA network.” the-Table (SoCATT) which also took place in the margins The new online programmes will introduce parliamentary of the 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference staff to the different functions that officials are required to (CPC) in Kampala, Uganda where delegates heard from perform and will benefit from the exchange of ideas between Rick Stapenhurst, Assistant Professor and Director, participants from different Legislatures across the wider Parliamentary Programmes from McGill University and Hon. CPA network. Participants will be enabled to appreciate Alexander Downer, AC, Executive Chair of the International the theoretical issues encountered and apply them in a way School for Government at King’s College, London. that improves their effectiveness. The programmes will also consider, from the perspective of parliamentary officials, For more information about both online programmes how the institution of Parliament can best support Members for parliamentary staff please email hq.sec@cpahq. in performing their representative roles. org. Both online programmes are scheduled to start in The CPA has been working with the School of Continuing January 2020.

Presentations at 64th General Assembly At the conclusion of the 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Uganda, the CPA Chairperson, Hon. Emilia Lifaka, MP (Cameroon) presented the CPA President (2018-2019), Rt Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda with a commemorative silver salver to thank the CPA Uganda Branch and Parliament of Uganda for their hosting of the 64th conference. Outgoing CPA Executive Committee Members were also presented with commemorative plaques traditionally donated by the CPA Malaysia Branch to thank them for their service to the CPA. The CPA Chairperson also thanked the outgoing CPA Coordinating Committee Members - CPA Treasurer, Vicki Dunne, MLA (Australian Capital Territory), CPA Small Branches Chairperson, Hon. Angelo Farrugia, Speaker of Parliament of Malta and CWP Chairperson, Hon. Dr Dato Noraini Ahmad, MP (Malaysia).

To read the 64th CPC Conference Concluding Statement please visit www.cpahq.org/cpahq/cpc2019concludingstatement.

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CPA launches new handbook with British Red Cross on International Humanitarian Law for Commonwealth Parliamentarians

The CPA Small Branches Chairperson has officially neutral humanitarian auxiliaries launched a new online digital resource, the Handbook on to their respective governments International Humanitarian Law for Commonwealth – to help disseminate Parliamentarians to complement the CPA’s parliamentary knowledge of IHL and to ensure strengthening work and to enhance the performance respect for its provisions. Since of Parliamentarians and parliamentary staff across the its establishment in 1870, the Commonwealth. The CPA Small Branches Chairperson, British Red Cross has worked Hon. Angelo Farrugia, MP, Speaker of the Parliament of in this capacity to support the Malta launched the new publication in the margins of the British Government in matters 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC), related to IHL. Additionally, held in Kampala and hosted by the CPA Uganda Branch the British Red Cross works and the Parliament of Uganda. in partnership with other The CPA Small Branches Chairperson said: organisations, such as the CPA and the Commonwealth “Parliamentarians play a significant role in working Secretariat, to promote IHL in other fora. with the Executive and others to promote International Michael Meyer, OBE, Head of International Law at the Humanitarian Law (IHL) and to ensure its effective British Red Cross said: “This year is the 70th anniversary implementation. This requires Parliamentarians and of the four Geneva Conventions for the Protection of War parliamentary staff to be well-informed. This handbook Victims. All Commonwealth countries are parties to these has been specifically designed by the Commonwealth treaties. The Geneva Conventions are the cornerstone of Parliamentary Association (CPA) in partnership with the international humanitarian law (IHL), that is, the international British Red Cross to help achieve this goal, taking into law governing warfare. They can only fulfil their purpose account the specific legal traditions and practices, and of protecting certain persons and objects during armed values, of Commonwealth countries.” conflict and of regulating the conduct of hostilities if they are The CPA, founded in 1911, is one of the oldest implemented effectively. The British Red Cross is delighted established organisations in the Commonwealth. It brings to have worked with the Commonwealth Parliamentary together Members, regardless of gender, race, religion or Association in producing the handbook on IHL. We hope culture, who are united by a community of interest, respect that it will be useful as a practical guide to Parliamentarians for the rule of law and individual rights and freedoms, and parliamentary staff. The Geneva Conventions and by the pursuit of the positive ideals of parliamentary Anniversary is an opportune moment for all States, including democracy. It brings Parliamentarians and parliamentary those in the Commonwealth, to reaffirm their commitment staff together to exchange ideas among themselves and to IHL and to work towards its full implementation. The with experts in various fields, to identify benchmarks of handbook provides a solid and up-to-date basis to engage good practices and new policy options they can adopt or in such efforts together.” adapt in the governance of their societies. In modern armed conflicts, IHL is invoked by a number The history of different actors, including politicians, UN organs, NGOs, of IHL is domestic and international media outlets, and, of course the intertwined with combatants themselves. Especially in our fractured media the history of environment, it can be difficult to find resources related to the International the rules of war that offer a comprehensive, understandable Red Cross and and objective assessment of where the law stands today. Red Crescent The handbook was authored by Professor Sarah Movement. It Williams from the UNSW Sydney (University of New South is a statutory Wales, Australia) in consultation with CPA partners. responsibility of all National Left: The CPA Small Branches Chairperson, Hon. Angelo Farrugia, Red Cross Speaker of the Parliament of Malta and the Commonwealth Women and National Parliamentarians (CWP) Chairperson, Hon. Dato’ Dr Noraini Ahmad, MP Red Crescent (Malaysia) launch the new Handbook on International Humanitarian Societies – as Law for Commonwealth Parliamentarians in the margins of the 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Uganda.

To access the International Humanitarian Law Handbook for Commonwealth Parliamentarians please visit www.cpahq.org/cpahq/IHLhandbook.

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64th COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE Kampala, Uganda 22 to 29 September 2019

Conference Workshop A (Host Branch topic) - 26 September 2019 THE CLIMATE CHANGE DEBATE: A CHALLENGE FOR THE COMMONWEALTH?

Moderator: Hon. This workshop session focused Strengthening the rights and mitigate. Global agreements like Lawrence Songa, MP on the impacts of climate change knowledge of indigenous people; the United Nations Framework (Uganda) and the interventions that (xi) Mobilising of national and Convention on Climate Change Commonwealth Parliaments are international funding for climate (1992), Kyoto Protocol (1997) employing to mitigate them. It action. and the Paris Agreement Discussion Leaders: emerged strongly that countries Dr Alex Nimusiima (Makerere (2015) have been signed. • Dr Alex Nimusiima, should begin to budget resources University) regretted that the The Paris Agreement puts in Lecturer/Co-ordinator for climate change rather than Africa Region contributes the place the global commitment rely on donors. Commonwealth least to greenhouse emissions, to transition to a low-emission Meteorology Unit, countries should hold each other but it is the most vulnerable to economy, holding the increase Makerere University accountable in monitoring the climate change impacts. There in the global temperature to • Mr Robert Ondhowe, progress of implementation of is a rise in annual temperatures below 2°C and pursuing efforts climate change policies. over the past decades and to limit temperature increase UNEP Consultant Workshop Moderator, Hon. changes in rainfall patterns to below 1.5°C by 2100. Of (Former Legal Officer, Lawrence Songa Biyika, MP resulting in the increased concern, however, is that none UNEP in Kenya) (Uganda) noted that climate frequency of floods and droughts. of the mitigation-emission change needs to be urgently In Uganda, Mt. Rwenzori glaciers scenarios modelled from the • Mr Mohammad addressed to save the Earth are disappearing and Bududa Fifth Assessment Report of Semambo Kasagazi, and its ecosystems and for the has been hit by landslides, Lake Intergovernmental Panel on Senior Climate maintenance of robust economies. Chad (West Africa) is drying up Climate Change predicts He highlighted the impact that it and the melting snows of Mt. increases of temperatures below Change Officer, has on smallholder farmers and Kilimanjaro (Tanzania) are badly 2°C by 2100 rendering the Paris Ministry of Water appealed for urgent response from affected. Agreement target unachievable. and Environment the Commonwealth. In future, this could lead Some of the interventions in He noted that in Uganda, Civil to water stress and scarcity, Uganda are: the establishment of (Uganda) Society Organisations (CSOs) frequency of floods, drought the Climate Change Department • Hon. Winifred Masiko and academia have suggested and hailstorms; shifts in areas and Uganda National Metrological Komuhangi, Former the following recommendations of disease/pests, biodiversity Authority (UNMA); and the to address climate change loss and species extinction putting in place of policies (e.g. MP (Uganda) effects: (i) Creation of a climate (for example, the mountain the Climate Change Policy). Dr change fund; (ii) Ensuring 100% gorillas in Uganda); reduced Alex Nimusiima identified the Rapporteurs: Ms Betty conversion to renewable energy; productivity for major crops, and challenges impeding climate Kobere Nayah and (iii) Establishment of a climate a shift in crop growing zones. response as: uncoordinated NGO Ms Ophelia Nahabwe change tribunal; (iv) Establishing A decline in pastures and the interventions, understaffing of (Parliament of Uganda) multi-stakeholder engagement increased scarcity of water could UNMA, resulting into combining platforms; (v) Elimination of increase conflict in pastoral records from regions as opposed plastics use; (vi) Promoting areas. The economy in areas of to reporting them for individual low carbon transport; (vii) infrastructure, energy, water and districts; dependency on donors, Establishing CPC forests; (viii) agriculture will be hit to gross incomplete implementation of the Prioritising gender and climate magnitudes by 2050. policy and the lack of a Climate change; (ix) Strengthening To respond to these impacts, Change Bill. early warning systems; (x) countries have to adapt and Parliament is expected to

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ratify international instruments, Bill on Climate Change and the budgetary oversight on climate majority of the poor are women, carry out oversight, facilitate plan to include the certificate on related policy within the context who have other laws that culture public participation, engage in climate change compliance. He of the SDGs and national has prescribed. international activities, integrate noted that individual countries development. He also asked She stressed that meaningful climate change issues into have the discretion to formulate how the local communities could development requires climate committee programmes, enact laws that address climate change access financial resources. change adaptation and mitigation legislation and policy reforms; by having a single document Mr Ondhowe clarified that to be done in time. Gender and and mainstream climate change covering all aspects of climate some countries have not been climate change is now a stand- in ministerial budgets and plans. change or through having several cooperative in taking up climate alone topical discussion, to be The Workshop Moderator sector laws on the subject. The change fund as a mitigation discussed together with women asked how some of these SDGs provide a useful platform factor. Money needs to come economic empowerment in order challenges from carbon to for addressing the impacts of from the national budgets other to realise the SDGs. Government non-carbon emissions could be climate change. than international donors. Laws has invested a lot of time and addressed and how vulnerable Mr Robert Ondhowe noted and policies are in place, but resources. small holder farmers could that the Green Climate Fund was implementation becomes hard Mr Mohammad Semambo be helped. In response, Dr finalised in 2014 but countries especially coordination between Kasagazi (Ministry of Water Nimusiima advised that climate are yet to meet their pledges. The sector Ministries and finances. and Environment, Uganda) change is not a ‘one-man’s Fund is not disbursing monies as Norway has more fuel than observed the major challenges initiative’ but needs collective expected since project pipelines Uganda but has banned fossil to addressing climate change contribution from everyone, were not completed as anticipated cars and by 2025, all their cars as: inadequate funding for the given that we all contribute and because of capacity will be run on hydroelectricity, just implementation of laws and to its causes. Meteorologists challenges. The informal sector as two island states in the Pacific agreements, inaction and lack should improve on their weather lacks the technical knowledge of Region. of accountability from other forecasting skills to enable accessing the monies. Hon. Winifred Masiko sectors excluding Ministries farmers predict weather patterns He commended two Pacific Komuhangi (Uganda) regretted responsible for the environment; and seasons. countries that have been able to that climate change affects limited access to technology for It was suggested that since switch from fossil fuels to electric everybody but the poor and climate response; and limited Uganda requires a Certificate of mobility. Parts of India and the marginalised suffer more; as involvement of the private sector. Equity and Gender Compliance Scandinavian countries have also they rely on natural resources. Uganda should streamline during law enactment, it would be been able to implement ‘smart Children and women are the climate change in all sectors. good if a certificate in compliance agriculture’. most affected because of their Hon. Immaculate Sware to climate change response The Workshop Moderator involvement in agriculture. Semesi, MP (Tanzania) shared became a requirement. asked about the role of Children suffer high mortality that Tanzania still faces climate Mr Robert Ondhowe (UNEP) Parliamentarians in ensuring because of indoor pollution, change effects, mismanagement applauded the efforts to have a cohesive law-making and mainly because of kerosene. The of the environment, floods and

The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing | 289 ADAPTION, ENGAGEMENT, AND EVOLUTION OF PARLIAMENTS IN A RAPIDLY CHANGING COMMONWEALTH other environmental hazards. implementations have been without realisation that their are used. He urged delegates She suggested budgeting for undertaken since the Paris actions impact on climate to make use of the UNEP’s free infrastructure, which could Agreement. Annually, India change, affecting developing legal advice, which is accessible withstand climate change effects. celebrates Mahatma Ghandi’s countries. Bermuda nationals are on their website. Hon. Evans Kibanda, MP anniversary and in 2019, many complacent on use of electricity, Mr Patrick Mulindwa (Private (Zambia) asked what the solar plants will be launched. purchase and disposal of cars Sector observer) elucidated what Commonwealth should do if Shri Adhir Ranjan and the Government may not be the youth enterprise, SPARK some world leaders do not Chowdhury, MP (India) obliged to switch from fossil to was doing in advocating climate acknowledge that climate submitted that in India, he has renewable energy. change adaption and mitigation. change is real. distributed seedlings consisting Hon. Ilyas Karim, MP He proposed that CPA members Hon. Tofa Foleni Lio, of vegetable, fruit and medicinal (Malawi) suggested that the establish a ‘CPC Forest MP (Samoa) cautioned that plants to his constituents. Each CPA recommendations be Project’, to act as a souvenir Commonwealth countries private company in India has to clearly stated and forwarded to environmental commitment. and other bodies have had contribute 2% of its net profits the Commonwealth Heads of The following conferences for almost 20 years towards Corporate Social Government meeting (CHOGM) recommendations were but reliance on donors hinders Responsibility, which might and implementation followed up proposed but were not explicitly progress. Speaking of actions be extended towards climate at the next meeting. debated in the workshop: and work plans is not enough; change initiatives. The poor are Hon. Eleni Mavrou, MP • Climate change should rather, they should take stock of given gas cylinders. (Cyprus) noted that there is need be mainstreamed in all what each country is doing. Hon. Aisha Adams, for collective climate response the Ministries’ plans with Hon. Andrea Khanjin, MPP MP (Malawi) advised from all countries including the Parliament requiring a (Ontario) noted that although Parliamentarians to concentrate USA. Developed countries should certificate of compliance Canada represents 1.6% of on how to keep forests intact, take up the burden of technology before budgets are global GHG emissions, Ontario is meet in the villages, engage transfer to the developing approved. responsible for 0.4%. She sought traditional leaders and sensitize countries. • The role of Parliamentarians the opinion of the panelists on people on the dangers of tree Hon. Winifred Masiko in ensuring cohesive law- the carbon trust, reverse action cutting. Whoever endangers Komuhangi (Uganda) in her making and budgetary policy and green bonds that forests should be punished. closing remarks said that oversight on climate-related Ontario is implementing. Hon. Abdus Shahid, MP awareness and sensitization policy within the context Mr Robert Ondhowe (UNEP) (Bangladesh) implored countries are a continuous activity, which of the SDGs and national advised Canada to explore to meet their obligations, to should not stop. Commonwealth development. development of green bonds address impacts like floods Parliamentarians should take part • All stakeholders’ or blue bonds, supported by arising out of melting ice and in drawing up a climate change efforts should ensure legislation. rising sea levels. strategy and action plan. Members the responsiveness of Hon. Gladys Nancy Tembo, Hon. Aparajita Sarangi, MP need to continue to appreciate government to climate MP (Malawi) noted that countries (India) was perturbed that this the issue of climate change, change for a climate have many competing needs conference was discussing the which has now become an resilient economy and and climate change remains a impacts of climate change and environmental human rights issue. society. challenge. When the HIV/AIDS yet, water was served in plastic There should be continuous • Promote gender and scourge hit Malawi, every Ministry bottles. Members of Parliament interface between state and climate change responsive had a budget line to deal with it. should live by example. non-state actors. Uganda policies and strategies. The same could be done to deal Hon. Patricia Gordon- launched the Climate Change Establish parliamentary with climate change. Pamplin, MP (Bermuda) Parliamentary forum two fora to network with non- Hon. Roselina Tirkey, observed that developed years ago, just as the Standing state actors. Draft a climate MP (Assam) wondered what countries are materialistic Committee on Climate Change; change law and establish a to steer the acceleration Parliamentary Committee. of climate change impacts’ • Establish a national adaptation and mitigation. climate fund to solve the Mr Robert Ondhowe (UNEP) challenge of financing concluded by saying that clean climate actions and to spur cooking technology is an easy the provision, mobilisation win as it helps women to get and deployment of climate rid of respiratory and other finance. diseases, including the time they • Commonwealth spend looking for firewood. The jurisdictions should launch Treasury would get more from the 64th CPC Forest Project VAT than excise duty if ethanol under the campaign ’Plant a and other clean cooking agents CPC Forest’.

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64th COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE Kampala, Uganda 22 to 29 September 2019

Conference Workshop B - 26 September 2019 INNOVATION IN PARLIAMENT: THE IMPACT OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ON HOW PARLIAMENT WORKS TODAY

Moderator: Hon. Russell This workshop focused on report and wanted to make sure use of social media for information and communications. Wortley, MLC (South how ICT can be integrated in that the people knew what their Parliaments as an enabler and representatives where doing. He emphasised the need Australia) tool in the promotion of openness, Now they have moved to: record to ensure that what happens in transparency and parliamentary all live sittings in MP3 files and Parliament is reported correctly share audio files; Committees and timely. They make sure what Discussion Leaders: outreach. This was through sharing of country specific using Skype; and transcribing has been spoken in Parliament • Hon. Dr Alex Allinson, examples and experiences in Skype proceedings. is reported on the website and MHK, (Isle of Man) the use of ICT in Parliament; Further, he informed delegates tweeted immediately, especially to correct any inaccurate • Hon. Bridgid specifically sharing innovations on that the Isle of Man Parliament what Members have done in their uses different platforms to get reporting because information Annisette-George, respective Parliaments. the message across different moves faster today. Fake news MP, Speaker of the Hon. Dr Alex Allison, demographic groups namely: has always been there and in the Isle of Man, the House (Trinidad and MHK (Isle of Man) started by website, radio, newspapers, the Criminal Code sharing how innovations in ICT Internet, social media and TV. As 1872 addresses the spread of Tobago) have worked for the Tynwald much as video coverage is still fake news as a criminal offence. • Hon. Ratu Epeli Parliament. He informed used by the majority, there is an He reminded delegates that we increased use of the Internet, live in an era where fake news Nailatikau, Speaker delegates that technology can change how people interact with more than radio and newspapers. spreads faster because of the of Parliament (Fiji) Parliament. Over 100 years ago, Therefore, there is need to increased use of social media they started with the Hansard embrace the digital world and the and that fake news is not just Rapporteurs: Ms Mataka Janet Gladys and Ms Ninsiima Catherine (Parliament of Uganda)

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integrated management systems; the digitalisation of records; and continuous upgrading of broadcasts for Parliament to ensure everyone is able to follow parliamentary business. The Fijian Parliament has developed an e-Parliament as one of the key goals to support law making and oversight. Through employing ICT, Parliament promotes engagement with the public in a meaningful way. Speaker Nailatikau noted that the future of Parliament depends on transparency, openness and accountability. wrong news but can produce between Government agencies. application that enables the Virtually all Parliaments draw mistrust in Parliament. With As a result, the Parliament Constituency Offices to record from ICT and this technological correct reporting, we can restore of Trinidad and Tobago has visits, issues and concerns. This engagement makes Parliaments the peoples’ trust in Parliament. employed widely acceptable helps MPs to receive and index more open and accessible and Hon. Bridgid Annisette- and available technologies concerns from constituents. increases public involvement George, MP, Speaker of the such as Microsoft Sharepoint. In addition, the Parliament and participation in the work House (Trinidad and Tobago) In addition, an application of Trinidad and Tobago have of Parliament. To most citizens started by emphasing that being (Rotunda) was developed to aid expanded their digital footprint the work of Parliament remains open-minded in Parliament in a paperless Parliament and into the realm of social media. obscure. Therefore, new promotes transparency. facilitate information sharing – Citizens can pose questions technologies are instrumental in Parliamentary information this includes the Order Paper, to be asked in some public helping citizens understand what should be made available to the Minutes of meetings, budget hearings and press conferences. Parliaments do and offers them people through open standards. documents, Bills, papers laid, Facebook and Twitter are used an opportunity to participate in She informed delegates that Questions and Answers, among to update the public in a timely parliamentary business. open-minded Parliaments have many examples. Every new manner as proceedings and He further noted that young openness including open media Member of Parliament receives notices are published. people are expressing a sense of systems and standards. This helps an iPad that has Rotunda pre- The Parliament of Trinidad and dissolution and disappointment them to have an open Government loaded. In addition, the Parliament Tobago has faced challenges with with the current systems which where citizens have access to the of Trinidad and Tobago has the use of technology such as the don’t allow them to express their right information to carry out public digitised 55% of their older laws, budget, public service policies not views and concerns. In order oversight. Hansard reports and many books supportive of where they want to to address this limitation, the In addition, to achieve with the KOHA integrated library go, support with the necessary staff Fijian Parliament introduced the openness, modern technologies system. and knowledge gaps among others. Speaker’s Debate, chaired by are needed. In Trinidad and Speaker Annisette-George Speaker Annisette-George the Speaker and streamed live Tobago, they incorporated also informed delegates that concluded by emphasing that on social media and national SMART technology through a new technology has helped in Parliaments need to recognise TV. This is held to connect the strategic plan. In the strategy the development of the Hansard the importance of IT in promoting people with Parliament, not just that was developed, they wanted report using various applications openness, transparency and for strengthening openness to ensure that: they have a that are not expensive such as governance. Parliaments must and accountability but also to paperless Parliament and SliqScribe Desktop Assistant continue to appreciate the encourage political participation. increased efficiency; documents software used to record, index changing world of ICT and its They have revived their website received and produced by the and publish the official record role in improving Parliament’s to provide the public with better Parliament are available in a in an efficient manner. Also, the functions and abilities to better access to the work of Parliament. usable electronic format; the Parliament have developed a serve its Parliamentarians, Further, he informed Hansard report is available in a YouTube channel which allows staff, citizenry and interactions delegates that the Parliament of suitable and usable format to video and audio streaming of with other Parliaments and Fiji has launched a Parliament all stakeholders; the website parliamentary sittings and users Assemblies. App in 2017 that allows people contains all the information can view past sittings. Hon. Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, to stay in touch with Parliament’s needed and in a timely manner; Furthermore, there is the Speaker of Parliament (Fiji) activities as well as engage with and that information is captured COIRS (Constituency Office informed delegates that the Members. The Fijian Parliament in a format that could be shared Issue Reporting System) Parliament of Fiji has established identified citizen engagement

292 | The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing ADAPTION, ENGAGEMENT, AND EVOLUTION OF PARLIAMENTS IN A RAPIDLY CHANGING COMMONWEALTH as a high priority and adopted parliamentary committees can asked delegates what Cape) suggested that every new technologies that offer low use video conferencing with technologies and measures single country should pressurise cost ways for doing so, such witnesses and IT can be used for Parliament can use in guarding social media platforms to clean as using Facebook and Twitter voting in parliamentary chambers. against fake news. up artificial intelligence so that to communicate parliamentary He noted that new technology Hon. Dr Alex Allinson, MHK, people take responsibility of what sittings among others. offers many advantages but (Isle of Man) responded that comes out of social media. However, Speaker Nailatikau comes at a price and changes fake news is the dark side of Hon. Solomon Lechesa cautioned delegates that have to be made and adopted. increased access to IT and Tsenoli, MP, Deputy Speaker of social media networks need Hon. Roopa Ganguly, MP Parliament. In some places, the National Assembly (South management. In this context, (India) told delegates that regulation is being considered to Africa) emphasised the need to the Fijian Parliament in 2018 whatever they are doing in the address fake news through social also focus on risks associated developed social media Parliament of India had already media policy. He emphasised the with IT such as demeaned ethics guidelines to guide all of the been said. Going paperless, they need for Parliamentarians to put and how artificial intelligence has social media use by Parliament. have achieved a 60% level. They the truth out there and monitor led to job losses. He concluded by reminding have a website translated into 22 what is being posted. Hon. Dr Alex Allinson, MHK, delegates that Parliament recognised languages and are Hon. Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, (Isle of Man) responded that there derives its legitimacy from its working on speech recognition. Speaker of Parliament (Fiji) is need for awareness of artificial core function as a people’s Further, the India Parliament responded that they have social intelligence. In addition, there representative and, strong, have an e-payment system, media guidelines in Fiji, which are has to be an ethical basis of the democratic Parliaments are e-file management system and still a work in progress and could tools and how we control them responsive to changes in society. 24-hour television coverage. not be shared at the time. for example through taxation, Hon. Dr Rajeev Bindal, MLA, Finally, she informed delegates A delegate from Mauritius Government action or legislation. Speaker of the Legislative that India is digitalising everything observed that there is so much The following two Assembly (Himachal Pradesh) in the country not just Parliament. information in the media and recommendations at the informed delegates that Hon. Beverly Schafer, MPL, asked how good data can be workshop were endorsed as digital transformation of their Deputy Speaker (Western sieved from the bad? follows: Legislative Assembly was done Cape) emphasised the need Hon. Dr Alex Allinson, MHK, • Parliaments should by implementing ‘e-Vidhan’ to keep the youth involved in (Isle of Man) responded that employ ICT to connect as a major administrative parliamentary business to ensure one needs to treat information with citizens in a more reform to augment faster a future, sustainable Parliament. carefully. Library and Research direct and meaningful way, and transparent governance. She shared applications that her services can be very useful when strengthening transparency, ‘e-Vidhan’ is a software suite of Parliament is using to increase it comes to big data as none of us accessibility and a public website, secure website, youth participation. These has experience with big data. accountability. Adopting in-house applications and mobile include: Trackbill.com a cellphone Hon. Bridgid Annisette- technology promotes apps. This has enabled the app that tracks Bills, Committees George, MP, Speaker of the political engagement and Assembly to be 100% electronic and Legislators; Pressreader. House (Trinidad and Tobago) builds more effective, as they have paperless Assembly com which replaced newspapers; responded that they have officers inclusive and responsive sessions; paperless working Meltwater that measures the who monitor what is on the social institutions. of House Committees and an impact of the Legislature on the media platform. She noted that • Parliaments must take e-Constituency management. public and; Vertical video, a new nationally sensitive information steps to integrate ICT In addition, the business of the way of recording video for youth is not published. For camera into their operations, to House Committees are 100% engagement. sessions, it is only available after improve efficiency and online. There is the ability to view A Speaker from a State in it has been made public. Further, communication and reach meeting agendas and replies India (unrecorded) reminded she informed delegates that the population via various from departments with respect delegates that democracy has managing the Internet is a global technological platforms, to assurances, audit queries and to be developed and enhanced. problem without a solution, yet we in an effort to deepen questions among others. With Digital citizenship is the main can’t run away from the Internet. democracy. the e-Constituency management thing now and they are trying to Hon. Dr Rajeev Bindal, MLA, The following recommendation system, MPs are able to monitor establish a digital Parliament. Speaker of the Legislative was noted as follows (due to public works, grievances and send In addition, they want digital Assembly (Himachal Pradesh) associated risks): messages to their constituents. interaction with the common informed delegates that they • Expanding access to Hon. Pocharam Srinivas people and a digital pool for don’t rely on social media and Hansard through social Reddy, MLA, Speaker of suggestions, for example in their solution to fake news media engagement can the Legislative Assembly adopting a law, anyone can send is digital media which has lead to greater awareness (Telangana) informed delegates amendments to the pool and the to be registered to ensure of, and interest in that the public expects increased comments are collected and sent responsibility for fake news. parliamentary process and access, transparency and to the respective Ministry. Hon. Beverly Schafer, MPL, decision making. accountability. To achieve this, The Workshop Moderator Deputy Speaker (Western

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64th COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE Kampala, Uganda 22 to 29 September 2019

Conference Workshop C - 27 September 2019 THE ROLE OF PARLIAMENT IN FACILITATING PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES AS ELECTORS, CANDIDATES AND LEGISLATORS

Moderator: Ms Ann Jones, The workshop focused on the role conversational process of Council (New South Wales) is AM, Deputy Presiding of Parliament in facilitating Persons knowledge sharing in which a former Minister for Disability with Disabilities (PWDs) as Electors, participants discussed a topic Services in New South Wales. Officer (Wales) Candidates and Legislators. It at several tables, with the table He shared the experience of comprised of two parts; the plenary hosts switching tables periodically how New South Wales has Discussion Leaders: which involved presentations from and introducing the previous supported PWDs as legislators. discussion leaders and a mentoring discussion they had at their new He informed the workshop that • Hon. John Ajaka, component. table. The participants discussed he had introduced the Disability MLC, President of the The discussion focused three questions namely: how Inclusion Bill, 2013 to Parliament Legislative Council on the promotion of effective to create inclusive political which was passed into law. participation of PWDs in politics; institutions and processes; what He also presented a four-year (New South Wales) the alignment of national laws support should be provided disability inclusion action plan • Dr Morais Guy, MP with the UN Convention on to PWDs who are seeking which was a requirement for the (Jamaica) the Rights of PWDs (CRPD), elected office; and how to make implementation of the Bill. with a focus on Article 29 of Parliament accessible and The New South Wales • Hon. Dennitah Ghati, the Convention; the role of inclusive for disabled Members. Parliament has implemented MP (Kenya) Parliament in ensuring that Workshop Moderator, Ms Ann an inclusion strategy which • Senator Marilou ratification of CRPD by States Jones, AM (Wales) in her opening supports the Parliament’s is translated into tangible remarks, welcomed delegates to mission to promote an inclusive McPhedran (Canada outcomes; and mainstreaming the workshop and informed them environment to Members, staff Federal) disability rights into policy that the workshop stems from the and the community including • Ms Kerryann Ifill, formulation and legislation. inaugural CPA Conference for PWDs. New South Wales has two The United Nations Parliamentarians with Disabilities disabled Members of Parliament. Disability Rights Convention on Rights of Persons held in Nova Scotia Canada in Hon. Gareth Ward, MP is the Consultant and with Disabilities (CRPD) is a 2017. Ms Ann Jones, who has been current Minister for Families, former President fundamental instrument in with a disability since childhood, Communities and Disability ensuring PWDs participate attributed her success to her Services. He is visually impaired of the Senate in political process. Article 29 parents who always encouraged and is the first person in New (Barbados) states: “Parties shall guarantee her that she was capable of doing South Wales to become a Minister to PWDs political rights and the everything despite her disability. for Disability Services. Parliament opportunity to enjoy them on She informed the delegates that provided him with an additional Rapporteurs: Mr Kato an equal basis with others, and in her political career, she has staff member to drive him from his Wilberforce and Ms shall undertake to ensure that always advocated for the rights of electoral office to Parliament. Namukose Esther PWDs can effectively and fully all people especially persons with The second Member is (Parliament of Uganda) participate in political and public disabilities. She appreciated the Hon. Liesl Tesch, MP - the first life on an equal basis with others, improvements which have so far Member of the New South Wales directly or through freely chosen been made although there is still Parliament who uses a wheelchair. representatives, including the more to be done. She introduced Parliament made improvements right and opportunity for PWDs to the five discussion leaders to the to the building to enable her carry vote and be elected.” delegates. out her parliamentary duties The workshop used an Hon. John Ajaka, MLC, such as installing an automated approach of a structured President of the Legislative door; removing some seats in the

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chamber and installing partially Chamber is on the second lack of awareness and information life among PWDs. This can be removable seats to provide floor and there is no elevator. leading to low levels of participation done by ensuring accessibility of space for wheelchairs; modifying Similarly, the public gallery is not in political parties; inadequate polling stations and mandating the existing brass railings on accessible to visitors with physical assistive voting devices for persons the inclusion of PWDs in political the chamber floor; cutting the impairments. However, the designs with sensory impairments; lack parties, the electoral system and underneath of the chamber table of a proposed new Parliament of acknowledgement of the other public bodies and institutions. to allow space for wheelchairs; building have incorporated all of leadership rights and/or abilities Senator Marilou McPhedran building a temporary rail into the required amenities for PWDs. of PWDs; lack of critical political (Canada Federal) reminded the side entrance of the Council Hon. Dennitah Ghati, MP connections; irregularities in delegates to ensure that the Chamber. The modifications (Kenya) said that the large turnout political party primaries that lock protocol to the UN CRPD is were made in consultation with of delegates for this workshop PWDs out; inadequate financial ratified because it is through this the Member and Parliament was an indication that the issue of resources; failure to implement protocol that individuals can bring also installed rails, handrails, lifts, PWDs were getting due attention electoral rules, especially during complaints to the United Nations. accessible toilets, in order to from Parliamentarians. She party nominations; use of Canada ratified the UN CRPD in improve on accessibility in the observed that the 64th CPC was discriminatory tactics and violence 2010 and steps have been taken parliamentary building. being held during Deaf Awareness to keep PWDs out of political to ensure alignment of national Dr Morais Guy, MP (Jamaica) Month. She told delegates that races; lack of solidarity among laws with UN CRPD by focusing informed delegates that Jamaica she became disabled in 2014, PWDs across the political divide; on Article 29 of the Convention ratified the UN CRPD in 2007. a year after being elected as a and insufficient mobilisation of that calls for active participation of Legislation that has been enacted woman Member of Parliament. media coverage. PWDs in political and public life. to protect citizens including Globally, PWDs constitute 1 billion To ensure that PWDs As a Federal State, Canada’s PWDs are; the Charter of Rights people and 80% live in developing effectively and fully participate in commitment to the rights of 2011; Disabilities Act 2014; countries. Kenya has about 6.5 politics as electors, candidates PWDs is also a commitment of all Representation of the People’s million PWDs. and legislators, Hon. Dennitah provinces and territories. Canada’s Act (ROPA). To ensure that all Hon. Dennitah Ghati, MP Ghati, MP suggested that the legislation for protecting the rights citizens have the right to access to emphasised that political following should be done: of PWDs include the Canadian information, Parliament introduced participation is an integral part of • The CPA should ensure that Human Rights Act, 1977; the sign language interpretation for universal human rights. Effective every CPA Branch has at Charter of Rights and Freedoms, persons with hearing impairments participation in political and public least a PWDs representative entrenched in the Canadian in both Houses of Parliament. spheres is crucial to democracy who attends critical meetings Constitution; and the right to Parliament also adopted and good governance. The political organised by the CPA; vote and to run as a candidate a supportive approach where participation of PWDs allows them • The CPA Constitution should articulated in the Canada Elections PWDs hold senior positions in to make positive contributions to be amended to create a wing Act. Senator McPhedran however, both Chambers of Parliament. disability inclusive policies. This is of Parliamentarians with noted that the application of these Senator Floyd Morris became the critical to full implementation of both disabilities to handle disability laws has not been complete. President of the Senate in 2013. CRPD and the 2030 Agenda for issues; The UN Convention is a tool In 2016, Hon. Pearnell Charles, Sustainable Development Goals. • Parliaments must promote that obligates the States to be who has a hearing impairment, Kenya’s Constitution caters and champion accessibility of responsible; for instance, voting became the Speaker of the for the rights of PWDs in all public buildings by PWDs; procedures, facilities and materials House of Representatives. Articles 55, 97(1) (c), 98 (1) • The CPA should create must be appropriate, accessible However, challenges still (b) and 100. There has been a a Commonwealth fund and easy to understand and use exist, for example where the significant improvement in political to support women with by PWDs. In line with this, Canada old Parliament building has no participation of PWDs in Kenya, disabilities. enacted the Accessible Canada provisions to accommodate although there are still barriers Parliaments should exercise Act. This legislation requires persons with physical impairment; such as: denial of the right to their representative and oversight federal entities to take proactive the seats do not allow for vote in some jurisdictions; lack of functions to promote equitable steps to remove barriers that would wheelchair accessibility; the disaggregated data on PWDs; participation in public and political hinder participation of anyone with

The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing | 295 ADAPTION, ENGAGEMENT, AND EVOLUTION OF PARLIAMENTS IN A RAPIDLY CHANGING COMMONWEALTH a disability, have accessibility plans, expensive as many Parliaments accommodate persons with visual representative for PWDs in all CPA provide employees and public on are reluctant, however it is not impairment by ensuring that it Branches. The political parties feedback on accessibility initiatives about the cost, but it is about has braille available. The owners should recognise potentials of and provide progress reports on how important it is to involve of minibuses are also required PWDs and offer them opportunities the fulfillment of their accessibility constituents. Barbados has to remove four seats to provide to fully participate in politics. plans. Currently, the main embarked on provision of a spaces for PWDs. Ms Kerryann Ifill suggested Parliament buildings in Canada are legislative framework to promote Emmanuel Juuko from the that Parliaments should ensure being renovated and so disability what is necessary at parliamentary Deaf Development Foundation of that PWDs are included at every access plans are being considered. level (i.e. recognising the Uganda said the foundation refers strata in order to promote their Though Canada has made community of PWDs as important to PWDs as the ‘differently abled rights. The approach to governing great progress in passing stakeholders in discussions). persons’. This is to change the and working with society must legislation that promotes the Ms Ifill concluded by way people think about PWDs by value and respect all persons. inclusion of PWDs, there is challenging Parliamentarians focusing on their capacity and to At the conclusion of the still more to be done. Senator that their role does not end with plan for them. Policies must match workshop, conference delegates McPhedran was hopeful that elections; it begins after ensuring with the needs of PWDs. In 2014, endorsed the following six dialogue and discussion would that the theme of PWDs ‘Nothing Uganda had 1,839,600 persons recommendations: guarantee the rights of PWDs about us without us’ is promoted. with hearing impairment and 95% • Legislatures implement that match with those of the UN Hon. Nalule Safia Juuko, MP could not read, write or use sign a Disability Inclusion Convention. (Uganda) noted that PWDs are the language. Action Plan (DIAP) Ms Kerryann Ifill, Disability biggest minority in the world (about Hon. Aisha Adams, MP following consultation with Rights Consultant and former one billion people); hence attention (Malawi) said that the Malawi stakeholders, including President of the Senate should be given to their needs. She Parliament had no PWDs removing barriers for (Barbados) also shared observed the lack of uniformity representative. However, legislators with disability her experience on how in the representation of PWDs in Parliament had one in the previous to effectively perform their Parliamentarians can engage Commonwealth Parliaments and term and was elected as a Second duties; PWDs to ensure that they are called for a legal provision in the Deputy Speaker. She proposed • Parliament must enact laws fully functioning and integrated in CPA. Funds must be provided for that legislators should enact to eliminate all forms of the community. proper implementation of disability policies that support PWDs such discrimination against PWDs After elections, Parliaments programs and policies. as: provision of free education; and seeking political offices, as institutions should sensitise Hon. Adi Litia Qionibaravi, employment quotas. besides developing suitable Members on the rights, needs MP (Fiji) said that the Fiji Hon. Amina Mollel, MP access and other physical and abilities of PWDs. The Parliament had ratified the (Tanzania) proposed that the infrastructure in Legislatures; Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) CRPD in 2017 and also enacted CPA should create a wing for • Parliaments should ensure and other organisations have the Disability Act. The first PWDs that will be responsible for ratification of CRPD and produced a handbook which person with disabilities was handling disability issues. seek to adopt CRPD’s encourages Parliamentarians voted into Parliament in 2014 Hon. Hamza Hassan Juma, Optional Protocol to to be aware of the UN CRPD. and he served as a Minister for MP (Zanzibar) proposed that the promote transparency and Disability is a cross cutting issue Youth and Sports. Parliament CPA should always give special accountability in upholding which can impact the lives of constructed ramps and had a invitations to disabled Members rights of PWDs; any one at any time or place. special seat to enable him to of Parliament. He opened up an • Parliament plays a more Therefore, policies put in place access the Chamber. office for PWDs in his constituency, proactive role in ensuring should be checked with this Hon. Gladys Wanga, MP although he is not disabled. that the ratification of the reality. (Kenya) informed delegates that Hon. Dennitah Ghati, MP CRPD by the State is In Barbados, major political through the efforts of disabled (Kenya) proposed that the CPA translated into tangible discussions are facilitated with Members of Parliament, Kenya Constitution could be amended outcomes; sign language. It may seem is changing its currency to to provide for at least one • Parliaments should promote a legislative agenda that ensures all concerned are aware of and incorporate, the rights of citizens living with disabilities; • The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) should form a disability network fully supported by the Association.

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64th COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE Kampala, Uganda 22 to 29 September 2019

Conference Workshop D - 27 September 2019 YOUTH ROUNDTABLE: STRATEGIES TO DEAL WITH YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT

Moderator: Rt Hon. Jacob The conference youth roundtable on youth unemployment in individuals enter the labour was chaired by Rt Hon. Jacob Uganda, the causes and the market, but the market is able to Oulanyah, MP, Deputy Oulanyah, MP, Deputy Speaker strategies the Government absorb approximately 200,000 Speaker of Parliament of the Parliament of Uganda of Uganda has employed (28.6%) only. The causes for (Uganda) and featured Members of to address the challenge. In youth unemployment in Uganda Parliament and youth participants Uganda, a youth is defined as include; inadequate skills and from a wide range of youth someone between the ages of skills/job mismatch, large Discussion Leaders: organisations. The Deputy 18 and 30 years. Out of the 40 informal sector, adverse effects • Mr Onapa Paul, Speaker highlighted the three million people, youth constitute of climate change on agriculture aspects of unemployment 22.5% of the population. and poor attitudes/mindset Ministry of Gender, that is unemployment, All the youth are within the towards work. Labour and Social under employment and working-age population and The Government of Development, Uganda un-employability. The youth therefore must find jobs if Uganda, in addressing youth roundtable focused on strategies they are to be economically unemployment, has focused • Dr Fred Muhumuza, to address the increasing relevant. He indicated that on both supply and demand Makerere University, youth unemployment which according to the Uganda Bureau sides of the labour market Uganda is a big challenge in most of Statistics Labour Force to ensure labour market Commonwealth jurisdictions. survey 2016/17, labour under efficiency. These measures • Hon. Mwine Mpaka, The first discussion leader, Mr utilization (unemployed and include; strengthening skills for MP, Youth Member of Onapa Paul, Ministry of Gender, under employed) was estimated enhanced labor productivity, Parliament (Uganda) Labour and Social Development, at 35.1% of the labour force. It promotion of investments in Uganda presented statistics is estimated also that 700,000 manufacturing and agriculture Rapporteurs: Mr Turyamureba Medard and Mr Nabaasa Moses Kameraho (Parliament of Uganda)

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sectors, increasing access to Emphasis was put on using Delegates and youth was concerned about the lack of finance for enterprise support, both fiscal and monetary policies participants then contributed to policies to attract educated youth externalisation of labour, and like giving tax rebates and the discussion. to agriculture in rural areas. Youth streamlining the informal sector. lowering interest rates. Hon. Princess Kasune, MP are running to Middle Eastern The second discussion Hon. Mwine Mpaka, MP, (Zambia) noted that most of countries and urban centres and leader, Dr Fred Muhumuza, Youth Member of Parliament the discussion is on the ‘brain yet there are opportunities in Makerere University noted (Uganda) spoke about the drain’ - the emigration of highly rural areas for educated youth. that youth unemployment is a five types of unemployment trained or qualified people from Mr Erasto Richard from the global problem. The solution namely frictional, structural, a particular country - and asked Church of Uganda highlighted to unemployment should be cyclic, seasonal and classical how countries can gain from the need for promotion of premised on the principles that unemployment. He noted the export of labour rather than sports in Uganda. He noted ‘demand for labour is derived that the strategies to address experiencing the ‘brain drain’? that Government has done very demand’. The creation of unemployment need to target Hon. Beverly Schafer, MPL, little in terms of promoting and employment is dependent on specific types of unemployment. Deputy Speaker (Western Cape) financing sports departments at the structure and growth rate The need for legal and policy noted that youth unemployment lower levels. of both the population and the reforms especially in education, levels in South Africa were Hon. Karabo Lerato Khakhau, economy. He noted that statistics reduction in interest rates, at alarming levels. Youth MPL (Free State) was concerned show that the unemployment focus on creative industry, and unemployment in the age group with the available possibilities of problem has been pronounced in regulation of externalisation of 15-24 years is at 63.4%. This sustainably creating employment low income developing countries of labour was underscored. was largely attributed to low for young people cognizant of many of which are part of the He, however, noted that labour economic growth. Economic the current issues of climate Commonwealth. Therefore, export was creating a problem growth in South Africa was change and the Fourth Industrial CPA Branches have to increase of brain drain and therefore, it predicted at 0.4% this fiscal year. Generation that tend to limit employment opportunities by was imperative for Government She emphasised the need for opportunities of government to addressing economic growth to regulate the industry and policies that are conducive for create jobs for young people. and supporting businesses for ensure economic benefits to the economic growth. The Western Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, easier and faster integration. country in the medium and long Cape Province policy of Skills MP (Ghana) questioned the Employment is determined term. He highlighted the need Game Change that specifically notion that labour export is by growth of the economy for development financing for targeted to up skill young people dysfunctional. He instead that should be higher than the young people than relying on has not reduced the youth indicated that labour export earns population growth rate. More so commercial banks that charge unemployment because of low countries foreign exchange growth should be in sectors that high interest rates and the need levels of economic growth. and also releases pressure for create labour and not largely or for investing in the creative Mr Johnson Obbo, youth employment. He noted that what only driven by technologies. industry. leader from Makerere University is required are structural changes

298 | The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing ADAPTION, ENGAGEMENT, AND EVOLUTION OF PARLIAMENTS IN A RAPIDLY CHANGING COMMONWEALTH with policies targeted at creating India can find himself of high • Reforming the education services. This will partly employment for young people. demand in Uganda. He also system to provide practical address the concern Hon. Aparajita Sarangi, MP proposed that making legal and skills and knowledge in of knowledge transfer (India Union) said that 65% of policy frameworks less rigid would wide areas that include and ensure growth and the Indian population is under 35 enable youth to establish start- creativity, innovation, sustainability of start-ups. years. In India, a youth is defined ups and provide financing for the mindset change, and • Increase access to as someone in the age bracket of innovative youth to enable them business management. affordable finance including 18-35 years. She noted that India commercialise their innovations. Vocational training should provision of grants to started the Startup India 2016 Hon. Andrea Khanjin, be enhanced to address the youth enterprises. Grant initiative, which is doing well. MPP (Ontario) stated that the above. incentives can be pegged Under this initiative, regulation Canadian situation is somewhat • Streamlining the to creation of more jobs and processes were simplified and different because the concern externalisation of labour sustaining the businesses. shortened to enable youth set is skills mismatch where young to address regulation, • Promoting opportunities up their own start-ups, which people are unattracted by some monitoring and for the creative industry has made them job creators trades, like welding. She noted accountability of peer-to- including establishment of and providers. According to that one in five future jobs in peer right from country level institutions such as football the Job Report 2016 findings, Canada will be in such areas and (i.e Committees between academies and sports 60% of children and students in yet the youth spurn them as ‘dirty respective Ministries centers. The support to schools and colleges will end up jobs’. With the advancement in of countries including cover both the public and in jobs which are non-existent technology, these jobs are not Ministries of Foreign Affairs, private sector. currently. Rapid advancement in actually ‘dirty’ and there is a need Labour, Education, Internal • Reforming laws and policies the fourth Industrial Revolution, to attract youth to these trades. Affairs and Justice). that relate to employment artificial intelligence, genetics, Following the panel • Provision of fiscal incentives especially those that are robotics, block chain technology discussions, the workshop for businesses that create restrictive and protect will greatly change our life divided into four groups to job opportunities for the those who are already in approaches. generate recommendations to youth. This should also employment while reducing Mr Jeremiah Keeya Mwanje, be presented to conference relate to the public services opportunities for entry such Parliamentary Forum on delegates. Each group put through creating quotas for as minimum wage. Youth (Uganda) proposed forward their recommendations the youth and targeting jobs • Climate change aspects that Commonwealth countries which were discussed and at the lower skills spectrum. should be considered to should consider exporting harmonized to come up with the • Promote entrepreneurship ensure the environment labour amongst themselves and final recommendations. and business management remains sustainable and this comes with standardising At the end of the discussions, including support for supportive of the youth education qualifications and the eight recommendations at incubation centers and employment policies and syllabuses. He noted that a the workshop were endorsed as linkages to providers of strategies for the current person who is unemployable in follows: professional business and future generations.

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64th COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE Kampala, Uganda 22 to 29 September 2019

Conference Workshop E - 27 September 2019 COMBATING RAPID URBANISATION AND RURAL DECLINE: A CHALLENGE FOR THE COMMONWEALTH Moderator: Hon. Anthony This workshop session urban areas. Lastly, Parliaments urban areas although the intention Michael Perkins, MP, focused on the impact of rapid should ensure inclusive budgets of the open immigration regime is urbanisation and rural decline with a focus on rural development. to attract them to provinces with Speaker of Parliament (St in various jurisdictions within Senator Yuen Pau Woo rural population decline. Kitts and Nevis) the Commonwealth. During the (Canada Federal) started Dr Greg Munro, Secretary- workshop, urbanisation was the discussion by noting General, Commonwealth Local defined as the shift from a rural that urbanisation is common Government Forum (CLGF) said Discussion Leaders: to an urban area leading to large amongst almost all countries that urbanisation is not only about • Hon. Shri Hriday concentrations of people into in the Commonwealth but the huge cities but also increased Narayan Dikshit, towns and cities. It was highlighted challenges that come with it unplanned human settlements that with over half of the world’s vary from one State to another. especially in places like the MLA, Speaker of the population currently living in urban Senator Woo gave the experience Pacific Region. He said that one Legislative Assembly areas and a further 2.5 billion of Canada where 80% of the of the key drivers of urbanisation (Uttar Pradesh) expected to be added to that population is in urban areas while is lack of economic activities in population by 2050, urbanisation only 20% resides in rural areas. rural areas. For this reason, many • Senator Yuen and the concurrent rural decline Senator Woo said that Canada youths move to urban areas in Pau Woo (Canada will become an increasingly salient is a resource dependent economy search of economic activities. Federal) issue for leaders and policy makers which is increasingly subject to Dr Munro further observed that in the coming years. the global forces of commodity lack of women’s land rights causes • Dr Greg Munro, The major drivers of urbanisation and resource markets that drive many women, especially widows, to Secretary-General, stated at the workshop include the industries that support rural move to urban places. He noted that Commonwealth Local search for economic opportunities, communities. These forces this issue can have adverse ripple population growth, environmental have very powerful effects on effects on women’s livelihoods Government Forum degradation, desire for change livelihoods of rural communities. because they cannot utilise their (CLGF) of lifestyle, among others. The For instance, innovations like land for economic activities. adverse effects of urbanisation mechanisation that require fewer In addition, he noted that cities include overcrowding and slums workers in resource industries are safer especially in countries Rapporteurs: Mr William which experience major problems create population decline in rural with conflict and therefore, people Lubowa and Mr Basala such as poverty, poor sanitation, areas because fewer people are usually move to urban areas for Martin (Parliament of unemployment and high crime rates. employed in these industries. They safety reasons. He observed Uganda) It was further highlighted move to urban areas in search for that urbanisation challenges are that urbanisation challenges opportunities. unique and consequently, they are unique and vary across Senator Woo further said vary across countries and among countries and therefore, home- that Canada’s population growth urban and rural areas. based solutions should be and distribution are driven by Dr Munro said that the adopted. In order to address immigration because of its open biggest challenge in regard to urbanisation challenges, it is immigration policy which accepts urbanisation is that countries critical that countries develop roughly 1% of its population in plan separately for rural areas and adopt integrated plans to form of newcomers from other and urban areas which doesn’t guarantee equitable and holistic countries every year. However, ensure equitable development. development for both the rural and most of these immigrants end up in Accordingly, urbanisation

300 | The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing ADAPTION, ENGAGEMENT, AND EVOLUTION OF PARLIAMENTS IN A RAPIDLY CHANGING COMMONWEALTH concerns need to be addressed urban areas. She proposed that in a holistic way by ensuring countries need to learn from Cuba integrated planning for rural and which has been able to address urban areas. urbanisation by ensuring equitable Hon. Shri Hriday Narayan planning and development. Dikshit, MLA, Speaker of Hon. Dr Esther Mcheka- the Legislative Assembly Chilenje, MP (Malawi) asked (Uttar Pradesh) said that the whether a universal policy on main challenges brought by urbanisation could be developed urbanisation include an increase and shared across Commonwealth in slum population, acute shortage countries. This could help of affordable housing, shortage Legislatures that it is implemented of drinking water, environmental to address the challenges resulting problems like air, water and noise from uncontrolled urbanisation. pollution, increased pressure Hon. Kassiano Wadri, MP on land, lack of mass transport (Uganda) blamed urbanisation addressing the challenge of the he advised that urbanisation should among others. He observed that on the existing education system. lack of clean water, especially not be viewed as the source of that urbanisation challenges are He observed that the current during dry seasons. She noted decline for rural communities but unique and vary across countries education system prepares that this was a major challenge rather to ensure that countries and therefore, home-based people for white-collar jobs other for rural development and adapt the latest technologies in solutions should be adopted. than job creation. He proposed sustainability and attributed agriculture so as to address the Dr Greg Munro emphasised that the education system this to climatic change effects urbanisation challenge. that it is critical for countries to should focus more on training which need to be addressed. At the end of the discussions, the develop and adopt integrated job creators, especially in the She recommended that use of three workshop recommendations plans that guarantee equitable agricultural sector which has plastics should be banned in all were endorsed as follows: development and service potential to employ many youths. Commonwealth countries. She • Parliaments should focus provision for both the rural and Hon. Suhaizan Kayat, Speaker further advocated for targeted on building sustainable urban areas. In order to solve of the State Assembly (Johor) social support towards the much- livelihoods in urban and urbanisation challenges, Dr shared his country’s efforts to needed services in rural areas. rural communities that are Munro proposed that Legislatures address urbanisation. He said that Dr Greg Munro responded to unique to their needs and should ensure that the budgets poverty went down and household the question of water shortages and circumstances. are inclusive and focus more on incomes increased largely on the he proposed that Commonwealth • CPA Parliamentarians rural and urban development. In account of the enhanced rural countries need to look into best support Commonwealth addition, Parliaments should use infrastructure, with increased practices for water use, water efforts on sustainable human their leverage to support small access to clean water and electricity recycling, climate smart gardens settlements by partnering scale businesses in rural areas as well as improved urban and rural and farming. He further proposed with locally elected leaders through procurement of services linkages among others. that countries can look into the to frame policy for effective and goods and encourage Hon. Syda Bbumba, MP training of small-scale farmers and delivery at the local level. establishment of industries in rural (Uganda) said that most of the sharing of farming equipment. • Rural and urban are areas to bring economic activities people who migrate to towns are Senator Woo, on the issue of complimentary to each other. and jobs to rural areas. youth who have a high likelihood safe water, noted that a shortage Parliaments should focus on Hon. Shri Hriday Narayan Dikshit, of becoming criminals. She also of safe drinking water is common, regulation of urbanisation MLA (Uttar Pradesh) proposed that noted that we need to create especially in isolated communities and development of rural in order to stop rampant migration special funds to provide start-up in Canada. In regard to rural decline; areas such as in India. to urban settlements, services capital for small such as new technology, proper scale businesses. infrastructure, health care, education She further and energy should be available proposed that to rural areas as a means of job countries need creation to the rural youth. to commercialise Rt Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, agriculture and MP, Speaker of the Parliament of create agro Uganda noted that urbanisation processing is a function that causes the lack industries. of opportunities in rural areas. A Member She said that due to lack of job from South Africa opportunities, the youth sell asked how other land in rural areas and move to countries were

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64th COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE Kampala, Uganda 22 to 29 September 2019

Conference Workshop F (CPA Small Branches Topic) - 27 September 2019 INNOVATIONS IN PARLIAMENT: THE POSSIBLE EFFECTS OF UNITED KINGDOM ‘BREXIT’ ON CPA SMALL BRANCHES

Moderator: Hon. Dr W. The workshop was focused on Members Bills, but have also gone Deputy Jeremy Smithies Mckeeva Bush, OBE, MLA, the effects of ‘Brexit’ on the ahead to influence what is to be (Guernsey) noted that Guernsey parliamentary procedures in the discussed on the order paper. fully depends on the United Speaker of the Legislative United Kingdom and how small He further noted that biggest Kingdom and so whatever Assembly (Cayman Parliaments can benefit and challenge is the issue of no situation that affects the UK, Islands) learn from the ramifications and agreement by Members on the fully affects Guernsey. He strengthen the workings of their terms of leaving the European informed the house that the Legislatures. The session also Union. Without the United issues of ‘Brexit’ are important Discussion Leaders: looked at implications of ‘Brexit’ Kingdom moving forward in this to the people of Guernsey and • Mr Tom Healey, on trading relations, how to deal area, the ‘Brexit’ debate might its Government, to the extent with any potential ramifications take a long time to concluded that a Parliamentary Committee Parliamentary Clerk on an economic scale, involving and further discussion in the has been set up to monitor (United Kingdom) the consideration of larger states House of Commons would the ‘Brexit’ situation and it is • Hon. Stuart McMillan, like Scotland and New Zealand. inevitably take place. mandated to meet every week. The session also considered Hon. Stuart McMillan, MSP This is because what affects the MSP (Scotland) discussions on how ‘Brexit’ (Scotland) informed the audience United Kingdom directly, affects • Deputy Jeremy will influence the global that Scotland’s position to remain Guernsey, irrespective of the fact Smithies (Guernsey) trading landscape within the in the European Union has that Guernsey is about 100 miles Commonwealth and how not changed. He revealed that away from the United Kingdom • Hon. Maggie Barry, policymakers can ensure their many members of the public in and about 20 miles away from MP (New Zealand) country is not left out. The Scotland strongly voted for the France. Most food consumed in workshop also examined how United Kingdom to remain as a Guernsey comes from United small states can influence larger member of the European Union. Kingdom through Portsmouth; Rapporteurs: Mr Katumba states on issues especially in He noted that after ‘Brexit’, not only food but most good used Salim and Mr Ben Kokas regard to how to handle ‘Brexit’. it is predicted that up to 40,000 in the country. Okiror (Parliament of Mr Tom Healey, Parliamentary jobs would be lost in Scotland, He noted that small Overseas Uganda) Clerk (United Kingdom) noted thus rendering many Scottish Territories are independent but that backbench MPs in the UK people unemployed. Scotland maintain a relationship with the Parliament have taken control of is a strong beneficiary from the United Kingdom. Guernsey has the House of Commons order European Union with benefits a different status as a Crown paper, thus shaping the ‘Brexit’ like free scholarships and this Dependency; Guernsey is discussions in the House. He would be jeopardized if the UK linked to the UK through the informed delegates that the were to leave the EU. Crown of the United Kingdom United Kingdom Government at He highlighted that Scotland but is independent of the UK the moment doesn’t command is discussing with the European Government. He ended by respect in influencing business Union to remain a beneficiary concluding that the people of in the House of Commons. of the European Union market, Guernsey would wish to hear This explains why backbench irrespective of the decision discussions that will bring about Members of Parliament, not the United Kingdom takes on the end of the ‘Brexit’ process. only table questions, debate on whether to leave or stay as a Hon. Maggie Barry, MP (New substantial Bills, and table Private member of the European Union. Zealand) started by noting that

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aware of the extent that the UK Four recommendations Government has gone to provide proposed by the discussion solutions to those impacted leaders at the workshop session negatively by the ‘Brexit’ debate. were endorsed as follows. Hon. Patricia Gordon-Pamplin, • Parliaments should MP (Bermuda) noted that the consider the interaction continued ‘Brexit’ uncertainties are between procedural rules fully affecting the UK Overseas and statute law, and how Territories like Bermuda. This far flexible approaches includes young people that have to procedure allows for benefited from the employment adaptation to unexpected the United Kingdom has a close in Africa, in Asia and other parts muscle, the education scholarships political circumstances. relationship with New Zealand. She of the world; she also noted that and other schemes coming • Parliamentary scrutiny and observed that the European Union such markets are even bigger from the UK. She concluded by oversight by all United as a bloc is stronger, of course, than the European market. recommending that the UK should Kingdom Legislatures with all its members and that the Hon. Kenneth Bryan, MP resolve the issue because it is should play a key role in the UK can’t be as strong as it can be, (Cayman Islands) asked the affecting its allies. development of the United when it’s with the European Union panellists how their countries Hon. Patrick Nsamba, MP Kingdom’s international bloc, it is weaker alone. will handle the situation ‘post- (Uganda) wondered if the relations after ‘Brexit’. She informed delegates that Brexit’, if it finally happens. The United Kingdom is willing to • It is essential that Parliament New Zealand are negotiating question was aimed at how close market doors to other acts early, considers all with the European Union to see the Cayman Islands can take European countries; and that possible outcomes and how they continue in benefiting lessons from other countries this won’t directly affect third puts in place the necessary from the bloc, irrespective of on how they plan to handle the world countries like Uganda legislation whilst ensuring the status of the UK. However, ‘post-Brexit’ situation it happens. that exports and import directly the allocation of adequate she concluded by arguing that All the panellists replied that to/from the United Kingdom. resources. Commonwealth countries should their respective states have He justified his argument • To support the United support the UK in the process a Parliamentary Committee by noting that if the United Kingdom through their of exiting the European Union that is handling ‘Brexit’ issues, Kingdom is ready to close the democratic ‘Brexit’ process because that’s what the people because what happens in the door on Europe, what will stop and establish long-term have voted for. United Kingdom concerns all of them closing the door on other and sustainable Free Trade Hon. Clayton Mitchell, them irrespective of the levels countries like Uganda. Agreements with individual MP (New Zealand) made an of independence that they have. Hon. Dan D’Autremont, MLA Commonwealth countries. observation to delegates that The recommendations from such (Saskatchewan) argued that the A further recommendation since 2005, it is only former Prime Parliamentary Committees will United Kingdom, together with was developed and endorsed by Minister, Rt Hon. Tony Blair that form the basis of the handling of the UK Overseas Territories, all of the workshop participants: has won the United Kingdom the issues ‘post-Brexit’. This is should put in place arrangements • Reflecting the concerns elections with a major majority, also dependent on whether the to look at new partners for trade, of some of the CPA Small while others have been winning UK finally leaves the European apart from Europe, giving the Branches on which ‘Brexit’ with smaller margins, which Union or not. examples of Asia, Africa and the has had a profound effect, explains how unpopular they Deputy Lyndon Trott Americas. such Branches must be are. He stated that this explains (Guernsey) asked to what Hon. Dennis P. Lister, involved in substantive one thing; that the people in the extent the United Kingdom has MP, Speaker of the House of discussions with the UK have lost confidence in the considered finding a solution Assembly (Bermuda) reported United Kingdom on their Government and he advised that for those jurisdictions who have that he was furious with all that international relations. the UK Government should look been impacted negatively outside is happening in in for a way to gain the people’s the United Kingdom, especially the UK and with the confidence. by the ‘Brexit’ discussions? failures to effectively Hon. Beverly Schafer, MPL, Mr Tom Healey replied that manage the ‘Brexit’ Deputy Speaker (Western Cape) there is no doubt that United debate. He asserted advised that if the issue of the Kingdom’s internal and external that because of such UK remaining in the European relations have been weakened a failure, the UK Union is related to benefiting by the ‘Brexit’ debate. He Overseas Territories, from the European market, then also observed that the United like Bermuda, are the UK and those states that Kingdom Government has failed being affected are dependent on it, should look to control the ‘Brexit’ debates in many different outside Europe. They should in the House of Commons. He ways, especially take advantage of the markets also stated that he was not economically.

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64th COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE Kampala, Uganda 22 to 29 September 2019

Conference Workshop G (Gender Topic) - 27 September 2019 FOSTERING A CULTURE OF RESPECT, FAIRNESS AND DIGNITY: SEXUAL HARASSMENT HAS NO PLACE IN LEGISLATURES

Moderator: Hon. Syda Namirembe Bbumba, MP (Uganda), CWP President

Discussion Leaders: • Hon. Margaret Mitchell, MSP (Scotland) • Hon. Anahila Kanongata’a-Suisuiki, MP (New Zealand) • Hon. Sharon Claydon, MP (Australia Federal) This workshop session focused staff, emphasising a culture of Hon. Sharon Claydon, MP • Dr Lesley Clark, CWP on the ways in which Parliaments respect catering to diversity, (Australia Federal) thanked Alumni Champion can effectively combat bullying inclusiveness and adherence the Commonwealth Women and former Member and harassment in the workplace. to the code of conduct. There Parliamentarians (CWP) for It explored practical strategies had been an observed failure championing the issues of of the Queensland that can be implemented to to report matters of sexual women Parliamentarians, paying Parliament prevent sexual harassment and harassment by victims because tribute to those who led earlier bullying with in Parliaments, of the embarrassment and dent struggles in legislation which Rapporteurs: Hope Kasedde which has become common on their careers. has engendered respect and and Henry Odetta (Parliament culture and normalised behaviour. Hon. Anahila Kanongata’a- fairness. The panelist advocated of Uganda) This workshop topic was Suisuiki, MP (New Zealand) for equality in representation by also discussed in a session at argued against the language gender in Parliaments as is the the Commonwealth Women used in descriptions of sexual case in the Federal Parliament of Parliamentarians (CWP) harassment as incomplete and Australia. Conference a few days limiting. The panelist highlighted Dr Lesley Clark, CWP Alumni previously and called for an a recent inquiry into sexual Champion spoke about the in-depth engagement. harassment carried out by the push for appropriate education, Hon. Margaret Mitchell, MSP New Zealand Parliament, whose training and a code of conduct in (Scotland) called for openness, recommendations centered on addressing sexual harassment, fairness and equality among upholding culture, values and noting the lack of support to Members and parliamentary leadership. sexual harassment victims.

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She outlined identified ways of on sexual harassment through programmes dealing with sexual harassment complaints is imperative. such as the CWP Alumni including; socio-psycho support, • All Parliaments adopt a Initiative and support counselling and confiding in zero-tolerance approach women’s caucuses. a mentor with parliamentary to sexual harassment, • In order to create and experience. with robust procedures sustain gender sensitive All four recommendations which take complaints cultures within Parliaments, were endorsed by the workshop seriously, crucially including to combat discrimination as follows: awareness-raising about and sexual harassment • Respectful language, what is unacceptable. we need to support more upholding dignity of people, • Parliaments should support women into elected is fundamental to enhancing women MPs and provide Parliamentary positions at the quality of experience for confidential counselling all levels. “This workshop all. Prevention and action services, foster mentoring session focused on the ways in which Parliaments can effectively combat bullying and harassment in the workplace. It explored practical strategies that can be implemented to prevent sexual harassment and bullying with in Parliaments, which has become common culture and normalised behaviour.”

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64th COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE Kampala, Uganda 22 to 29 September 2019

Conference Workshop H - 27 September 2019 THE ROLE OF PARLIAMENT IN THE DOCTRINE OF SEPARATION OF POWERS: ENHANCING TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

Moderator: Hon. Christine Arising out of the workshop These included parliamentary that the exercise of all Executive St-Pierre, MNA (Québec) theme, the participants oversight mechanisms like the power be accounted to the were given a background Public Accounts Committee Legislature, shaped the core highlighting the importance which scrutinizes government of Westminster parliamentary Discussion Leaders: of the doctrine and the efforts expenditure; parliamentary democracies. He then alluded to • Hon. Shri Rajendra of the Commonwealth in enactments like the Right the philosophical underpinnings popularizing the same. Among to Information Act, Right of the doctrine of separation of Trivedi, MLA, Speaker others, the development of to Education Act, and the powers stretching as far back as of the Legislative the Commonwealth Latimer establishment of independent the ancient times in the classical Assembly (Gujarat) House Principles was noted as state agencies like the Public writings of philosophers like John critical. The Moderator’s remarks Service Commission, Election Locke and Montesquieu. • Hon. Shamsul focused on whether there was Commission, Auditor General Whilst laying emphasis on Iskandar Mohd Akin, need to update the principles among others. the benefits of the doctrine, MP (Malaysia) and whether legislators were Hon. Shamsul Iskandar Mohd the panellist posited that the doing enough to ensure the Akin, MP (Malaysia) followed on parliamentary privilege of • Hon. John Mbadi accountability and transparency with a paper on the theme of the exercising freedom of speech Ng’ongo, MP (Kenya) of the Executive and Judiciary. workshop. In his presentation, must be at the centre of ensuring • Mr Brian Speers, Hon. Shri Rajendra Trivedi, the current tussle between the that Parliament plays its role of MLA, Speaker of the Legislative Executive and Legislative arms checking the Executive powers. President, Assembly (Gujarat) kick- of government as played out in He however hastened to warn Commonwealth started the panel presentations the UK Supreme Court’s decision that it would not be sufficient Lawyers Association by underscoring the critical on the prorogation of the UK to exercise freedom of speech importance of the doctrine of the Parliament was enlightening alone. Accordingly, he pointed (CLA) separation of powers. He pointed and timely. Indeed, according to to the other key strategies for to the logic of the doctrine as the panellist, the current global strengthening Parliament in Rapporteurs: Ronald Bagaga crucial for democracy in that it trend of strengthening Executive the exercise of its role over the (Parliament of Uganda) helps avoid governance chaos. powers in major democracies, Executive. These include the Albeit, he stressed that fact that like the UK and the USA, rules on Ministers’ Question the separation did not mean warrants a reconsideration of Time, the use of Parliament’s a water tight severance of the the role of Parliament as a check Select Committees, positioning different arms of government but and balance mechanism to the of opposition MPs in critical rather a harmonious co-existence powers of the Executive. parliamentary organs and the of the three arms of government He further noted the establishment of an independent acting upon each other as checks fundamental principles buttressed parliamentary service, among and balances in the exercise of in the foregoing UK Supreme others. their constitutional mandates. Court case. These were that; the Finally he cited examples He cited the different primacy of Parliament meant that that demonstrate Malaysia’s manifestations of the doctrine the Legislature should enact laws parliamentary reform efforts enshrined in the Indian that all are obliged to obey and towards that end. These among Constitution to ensure the that the principle of parliamentary others include the appointing proper operation of this doctrine. accountability, which required of Opposition MPs to lead the

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Public Accounts Committees was the citizen on whose behalf Principles. Further, he noted the Parliament is sometimes usurped of Parliament, drafting of a the delegated powers to the Nairobi Plan of Action for Africa, by the Executive by crafty means. Bill to give the Parliamentary three arms of government are 2005. Of crucial challenge Indeed in some cases the notion Commission greater exercised. Thus the citizen was the fact that no action of state capture renders the other independence in terms of staffing should always be in focus in the has come out of these efforts. arms of government ineffective. and budget of Parliament, and discussion. Realizing the need for action The involvement of Executive the motion calling on all MPs to In illustrating the manner in led to the Edinburgh Declaration Members in the legislative declare their assets. which this separation is practised, of 2008 which among others business was raised as another Drawing inspiration from he alluded to the exercise recommended a toolkit to guide matter of concern to him. George Orwell’s novel, 1984, of parliamentary oversight action on the Commonwealth Hon. Betty Aol Ocan, MP he noted that power corrupts, and appropriation powers, Latimer House Principles and (Uganda) concurred with the and absolute power corrupts judicial review powers, and the availing resources to the arms of assertion that regular elections absolutely. He then rallied requirements for the Executive government and thus promote do not in themselves equate the delegates not to neglect expenditure accountability the implementation of the key to democracy. She wondered the mandate of ensuring that reports to Parliament. pillars of the rule of law under whether lobbying which seems Parliament does not abscond He then shared the Kenyan discussion. He offered the to create conflicts of interest, from its noble duty to act as the experience, where he noted that readiness of the CLA to help in was acceptable as a practice in bulwark against the excesses of the use of regular elections alone getting some traction in this area. legislative function. Further she Executive power. was not a sufficient guarantee He underscored the need to noted corruption was among Hon. John Mbadi Ng’ongo, of checking on the Executive train officials and persons playing the bad practices that stifle MP (Kenya) concurred with the powers in the absence of other a role in implementing these rule expression of the views of the previous panellists in laying out governance mechanisms. Thus of law principles. This, he argued, people. She challenged the the rationale of the doctrine of he asserted that regular elections could be supported through the CPA to demonstrate its value separation of powers. In fact, were not equal to democracy. readiness of his organisation to in influencing the uptake of to him, the key take-away from Mr Brian Speers do the same. democratic practices among the theory of the operation (Commonwealth Lawyers In closing he applauded the its Members. She sought of the doctrine was that the Association CLA) premised UK Supreme Court ruling on the clarity on whether it was good responsibility, functions and the his presentation in the existing prorogation of the UK Parliament, practise to have active soldiers powers of the three arms should efforts of the Commonwealth and which in his view went a long as representatives in the be distinct. Indeed this meant the CPA to cement the principles way to highlight the primacy of Legislatures. that the power, the functions and being discussed. He traced Parliament and the need for the Hon. Princess Kasune, MP personnel of the three arms of these efforts from the Harare separation of powers. (Zambia) raised concerns relating government should be different. Declaration Principles of the At the end of the panel to the role that the CPA plays in The discussion leader from Separation of Powers, 1991 in presentations, the question and enabling the implementation of Kenya emphasised that the which CPA Members committed answer sessions ensued and the doctrine of the separation value of the doctrine could be to put in place mechanisms for elicited a number discussion of powers. She wished to know seen playing out in the current implementing the doctrine of points. that CPA can do something in global events in this regard in the separation of powers. These Senator Mohamed Faki relation to some of the problems the USA and the UK. All in all, he were further reinforced with the Mwinyihaji (Kenya) noted faced by member Branches. She noted that the net beneficiary Commonwealth Latimer House that the legislative power of also raised the adverse effects

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of what she called the arrogance position on some of the excesses the legislative organ should democratic dividends and of numbers; where what the in the Branches so that there is a endeavour to be less dependent good governance. majority wishes takes the day sense of an external audit taking on the Executive for its funding. • Parliaments should seek regardless of validity of the place. She noted that some of Rt Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, to replicate Gujarat’s minority concerns. the mechanisms that undermine MP, Speaker of Parliament approach to ensure the Senator Wade Mark (Trinidad other arms of government (Uganda) asserted that the doctrine of separation of and Tobago) asserted the included ‘window dressing’ by the operation of the principles powers is well entrenched classical statement that power Executive; these must be checked being discussed here required in constitutions, and that corrupts, and absolute power by the CPA in voicing its concerns. that the Legislature is resolute legislation passed, is done corrupts absolutely. He went Hon. Haruna Iddrisu, MP in protecting its space. This so in a transparent manner. on to call for exploration of the (Ghana) observed that the should be guarded by the level • As the stark reality of the practical measures that ensure convention that the Public of determination of the head of authoritarian tendency that in small Legislatures enjoy Accounts Committee should the Legislature. In her personal of the Executive, the principles elucidated in the be chaired by the Opposition experience, this has been the Parliamentarians must be discussions. was well established in Ghana. case. On the other hand, she able to speak their mind Hon. Gladys Nancy Tembo, He however disagreed with advised that Legislatures must in debates, without fear or MP (Malawi) stated that the the tendency to measure the utilize mechanisms that make favour. principles being discussed were independence on the judiciary it difficult for the Executive to • The CLA supports the enshrined in the Constitution; based on a single ruling. In overrun it. promotion of and training however, the power of the purse commenting on the UK Supreme The session was then in the Latimer House needs to be looked into because it Court ruling, he noted that it reconstituted into smaller Principles and notes: did undermine the implementation further underpinned the need breakaway groups for delegates • the continuing need of these principles. According for the separation of powers. to discuss specific aspects for implementation to her, the CPA should voice its In his view he advised that of the theme of separation of and compliance powers in order to inform the by Governments workshop recommendations and particularly to ensure resolutions. that legislatures have At the close of the workshop, robust independent recommendations were accountability proposed and endorsed as mechanisms (e.g. follows: through select • Through Parliament, people committees) by which exercise their sovereign Ministers are held to power. Parliaments must account and diligently secure practical • the need to ensure Peer and well-executed review mechanism by constitutional separation CMAG is appropriate of powers for greater and effective.

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64th COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE Kampala, Uganda 22 to 29 September 2019

Conference Workshop I - 28 September 2019 POST-LEGISLATIVE SCRUTINY (PLS): A DIMENSION OF THE OVERSIGHT FUNCTION OF PARLIAMENT. HOW IS THIS REPRESENTED WITHIN DIFFERENT POLITICAL SYSTEMS?

Moderator: Hon. Maryse The workshop discussion centered across the Commonwealth have sector reports, examine financial Gaudreault, MNA, Vice- on Post-Legislative Scrutiny (PLS) variations in their approach to audit reports and budgets for as a vital tool in assessing the the PLS process, with some statutory agencies, evaluate President of the National relevancy and quality of regulations focusing more on legislation and implementation of government Assembly (Québec) and laws enacted that in relation to less on post-legislative activities. assurances, consider petitions, the intended objectives. However, they remain key engines review and examine of Hon. Shri Rajendra Trivedi, of PLS that feed into the House administrative excesses and hold Discussion Leaders: MLA, Speaker of the Legislative business and public consumption government accountable for any • Hon. Shri Rajendra Assembly (Gujarat) submitted through technical scrutiny reports. gaps in policy implementation. Trivedi, MLA, Speaker that part of the role of Parliament He identified critical He noted that India has is to evaluate and assess how Committees in post legislative a parliamentary practice of of the Legislative Governments implement laws, scrutiny, as seen in Gujarat, encouraging debates on statutory Assembly (Gujarat) policies and regulations right to include among others: motions and government work, • Ms Wendy Hart, from the Bill, the law enactment Government Assurance, which serves to generate ideas process through to the enacted Business Advisory and Public and provide answers to questions Inter-Parliamentary laws and to make a determination Accounts. Furthermore, where implementation gaps exist. Relations Officer, whether the intended objective Commissions of Inquiry form part He observed that the effective Parliament of New of the law is achieved. He further of the fora for effective PLS. oversight function of the Legislature stated that the initiation of post- He indicated that the and administrative accountability Zealand and CPA legislative scrutiny can be on role played by Parliamentary by governments to the Legislatures Pacific Regional request from the public or by Committees in their support of is a cornerstone of democracy and Secretary Parliaments themselves. post-legislative scrutiny is very an indicator of the principle of good It was noted that Parliaments vital. Committees scrutinize governance respectively. • Ms Zoe Oliver-Watts, Regional Director Africa, Westminster Foundation for Democracy

Rapporteurs: J. B. Kagoro and Webby Bwire (Parliament of Uganda)

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He submitted that India has and to encourage cyclical and findings is indirectly. Zealand suggested the need for other mechanisms that support review functions touching on the She emphasised that PLS community training on PLS to PLS such as legal challenges implementation of policies and is a very important process in encourage more participation in against unconstitutional initiating inquiries. Commonwealth Parliaments and involvement of communities provisions and civic pressure Ms Zoe Oliver-Watts, Regional and should be treated as such. in Parliaments’ affairs, like the on government against legal Director Africa, Westminster However, many Parliaments are case is in the UK. regimes that violate citizens’ Foundation for Democracy noted too busy to commit the needed Hon. Roopa Ganguly, MP rights. He recommended that that the focus of her presentation time and resources for PLS. In (India) called for the evaluation laws should be time-sensitive, of the United Kingdom’s model the UK, the House of Commons of Commonwealth countries’ and reviews should be mandatory of PLS was to facilitate learning and House of Lords are sensitive performance on PLS besides to reinforce credence to the PLS. of best practices, improvement not to create additional burden Canada, UK, Australia and Ms Wendy Hart (Parliament regulation and implementation on government, since it initiates New Zealand to find ways of of New Zealand and CPA Pacific of laws and policies amongst the process. Part of the routine stemming limited participation of Regional Secretary) indicated delegates. She noted that the work in the Committees is a vital the public and rushed processes. that some Commonwealth United Kingdom’s model of part of the PLS. There is in-depth Hon. Dr Morais Guy, MP countries tend to concentrate on PLS focuses on checking the PLS scrutiny of few laws. (Jamaica) sought information the enactment of laws without implementation of the enacted Hon. Jacob Oulanyah, MP, on specific Committees that significant effort on PLS. Pre- laws and policies and how they Deputy Speaker (Uganda) would take a lead role in the legislative processes such as calls work. However, it is not deliberately stressed that whereas budget PLS. The example of India was for memoranda and views from planned to provide an opportunity estimates and other pre- given where the law commissars the public are more emphatic in to revisit and revise regulation. legislative scrutiny and oversight lead discussions, seminars relation to any other PLS activities. She noted that most PLS are well undertaken, post- and workshops, engage with She pointed out that the is done indirectly where legislative scrutiny and oversight human rights commissions, hold New Zealand Parliament being Parliament, through questions, is very weak. There are hardly consultations with lawyers and unicameral, has a large number asks to government officials and any timelines and strategies of other stakeholders on matters of representatives (120) elected Ministers to provide feedback to reinforcing PLS and suggested relating to human rights. on proportional system which the public. For areas that need that this trend should change Hon. Beverly Schafer, MPL, sometimes are a basis for the slow deeper investigations, Select to position Parliaments to Deputy Speaker (Western Cape) PLS, especially at Committee level. Committees and Commissions serve their countries better. He submitted that both pre- and New Zealand has the following of inquiries are set up as recommended that Parliaments post-legislative scrutiny processes Committees which are crucial for information gathering fora on should adopt formal institutions should be strengthened to avoid PLS: enacted legislation and their to handle PLS through creating repealing of laws shortly after they (i) Regulations Review impact on the masses. systems to call back the are enacted. Committee She revealed that in a step purposes for accountability. The discussion on post- (ii) Legislative Design Advisory towards strengthening PLS, the Hon. Kenneth Natapai, legislative scrutiny generated the Committee UK Parliament introduced new MP (Kiribati) reinforced the following recommendations that In addition, there are formal reviews in 2008 after recommendations to adapt more were endorsed unanimously by Commissions of Inquiry that are piloting many other systems and efficient ways of scrutiny in relation the delegates: reactive in nature and that focus agreeing with government. This to CPA Small Branches that • Post-legislative scrutiny is a on investigating policy failure. particular system starts with have fewer legislators handling valuable oversight tool, part of Some of the challenges a government review of how enormous work. To this end, end to end iterative process, cited for New Zealand include legislation has been implemented emphasis was put on strategies, through which parliaments general lack of legal framework and thereafter, the findings external research and collaboration can evaluate efficacy, quality to support operationalization are published as a command within and outside the CPA and relevancy. of PLS; capacity gaps within paper, given to Parliament which Small Branches, building strong • Parliament should evaluate oversight Committees; later submits it to the relevant relationships with universities, law implementation of legislation unplanned and informal way Committee. commissions, pooling resources passed and policy in which the PLS function is The findings of the review together and work in a more framework of Government carried out; government laxity determine whether the Committee collaborative approach, support through well-structured to implement recommendations launches an inquiry into the effect joint budget analysis. Committee System as well of Parliament; and resource of the legislation especially where Hon. Nathan Cooper, MLA, as other mechanisms. constrains at Committee level. the impact is negative. Speaker of the Legislative • PLS requires resources: She recommended that PLS The UK House of Lords Assembly (Alberta) suggested in designing PLS systems, should be introduced among the considers the publication and that PLS should be carried out five Parliaments should consider Commonwealth Parliaments that thereafter, government starts years after the enactment of the what they can contribute do not have processes in place; the process of PLS by producing law or at least a specific review themselves, and what they to establish collaboration in the a memorandum. However, the period for the process be given. can ask others to contribute. sharing of resources for PLS; action taken as a result of the A delegate from New

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64th COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE Kampala, Uganda 22 to 29 September 2019

Conference Workshop J - 28 September 2019 HOW THE UPDATED CPA BENCHMARKS FOR DEMOCRATIC LEGISLATURES HAVE BEEN USED TO STRENGTHEN THE CAPACITY OF CPA LEGISLATURES

Moderator: Mr Anthony This workshop session focused Benchmarks and the evolution establishing the supremacy of Smith, CEO, Westminster on Parliaments having a journey from 87 indicators in Parliaments. The Benchmarks greater self-awareness of their 2006 to 132 benchmarks in also ensure measures are in Foundation for performance based on the 2018. The CPA Benchmarks place to support new MPs to Democracy (WFD) updated CPA Recommended have today moved beyond flourish and thrive in Parliaments, Benchmarks for Democratic minimum standard to become especially women. Legislatures. The CPA more aspirational in scope. The final panellist Hon. Discussion Leaders: Benchmarks provide a The second panellist, Hon. Hubert Kim Swan, MP • Hon. Mark Parton, MLA framework for excellence in Mark Parton, MLA (Australian (Bermuda) stressed that (Australian Capital Commonwealth parliamentary Capital Territory) observed that Legislatures should aspire to and legislative practice. even though our lives evolve accomplish the fundamental Territory) Workshop Moderator, Mr around what Parliaments principles of humanity entailed • Dr Roberta Blackman- Anthony Smith (Westminster do, Parliamentarians are not in the CPA Benchmarks, these Woods, MP (United Foundation for Democracy genuinely excited about the CPA are: democracy, accountability, WFD) gave a general overview Benchmarks, but on winning the openness, service, transparency Kingdom) on the importance of the CPA next elections. He emphasised and honesty. • Hon. Hubert Kim Benchmarks linking them to that the CPA Benchmarks Three recommendations were Swan, MP (Bermuda) the Sustainable Development provide an opportunity for self- endorsed by the workshop as Goals (SDG 16, 5 and 10.2). He assessment, which is the best for follows: • Mr Anthony Staddon, informed the audience that the improving performance. • That consideration be CPA Consultant workshop was aimed to share The third panellist Dr Roberta given to developing an their experiences on how the Blackman-Woods, MP (United abridged version of the Benchmarks can be applied in Kingdom) reiterated that details CPA Benchmarks in order Rapporteurs: Josephine different contexts. in the CPA Benchmarks are very to encourage the uptake of Watera and Catherine Ninsiima Mr Anthony Staddon critical in helping to deal with assessments. (Parliament of Uganda) provided an overview of the CPA challenges like ‘Brexit’ and hence, • Recommended CPA Benchmarks are imperative and when implemented conjointly will help facilitate the growth of democracy for the betterment of the people of respective Parliamentary jurisdictions. • CPA Branches to review their Parliament’s capacity and performance using the updated CPA Benchmarks for Democratic Legislatures and report on the results.

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64th COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE Kampala, Uganda 22 to 29 September 2019

CPA Commonwealth Lecture - 27 September 2019 ROLE OF COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARIANS IN MAINTAINING SECURITY AND STABILITY IN EASTERN AFRICA IS HIGHLIGHTED AT 2ND CPA AFRICA REGION COMMONWEALTH LECTURE IN UGANDA

Moderator: Rt Hon. Jacob The role of Commonwealth continent that most suffers from gathering and technological L’Okori Oulanyah, MP, Parliamentarians in maintaining the world’s biggest challenges gaps. Sub-Saharan Africa is security and stability in society and this is the same case with the most affected part of the Deputy Speaker of the in Eastern Africa has been terrorism. Africa, though, cannot African continent by terrorism, Parliament of Uganda highlighted at the second CPA afford to have more challenges especially in Nigeria, Cameroon, Africa Region Commonwealth because the existing ones Mali, Democratic Republic of Lecture which took place at the are already overwhelming. He the Congo, Burundi, Uganda, CPA Lecturer: 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary highlighted Uganda’s legislation Kenya and Somalia. The main Hon. Dr Crispus Kiyonga Conference in Kampala, Uganda. on terrorism and also hinted that active groups are Boko Haram, Al - Ugandan physician, Hon. Dr Crispus Kiyonga there are ‘hotspots’ for terrorism Shabaab, ADF, LRA etc. highlighted the significant role that in the world – with Eastern Africa Dr Kiyonga concluded by politician and diplomat. Commonwealth Parliamentarians being one. examining the impact of terrorism Former Ugandan can play in facing the challenges of Dr Kiyonga outlined the on the African continent, and the Ambassador to China and terrorism with a CPA Lecture titled: various methods used by possible interventions in the form ‘Maintaining Stability, Evolution, terrorists and these include: of legislation, policy frameworks Minister of Defence in the Dynamics and Challenges of radicalisation of young people and regional cooperation. He Government of Uganda. Terrorism in Eastern Africa’. Dr – kidnaps, abduction; taking asserted that more action must Crispus Kiyonga is a Ugandan advantage of people who have be taken. physician, politician and diplomat, grievances, difficult situations The CPA Lecture was chaired Discussion Leaders: who has previously served as etc; using resources and by Rt Hon. Jacob L’Okori • Kasaijja Phillip Apuuli, Uganda’s Ambassador to China generating funds from various Oulanyah, MP, Deputy Speaker Associate Professor at and as the Minister of Defence in sources. He mentioned that of the Parliament of Uganda the Government of Uganda (2006 terrorist attacks are wide-ranging and the discussion leaders, Makerere University, to 2016). including all kinds of military Kasaijja Phillip Apuuli, Associate Uganda During the CPA Lecture, expeditions like suicide bombing Professor at Makerere University • Hon. Simon Mulongo, Dr Kiyonga provided a working and ambushes, shooting and in Uganda and Hon. Simon definition of terrorism, its blowing up equipment. He Mulongo, Deputy Head of the Deputy Head of the geography and impact in the further highlighted the increasing Africa Union Mission in Somalia, Africa Union Mission Eastern Africa Region as well as prevalence of cyber-terrorism provided a wide range of policy in Somalia a profile of some terrorist groups and the use of social media. proposals and interventions operating within the region. Dr He focused his presentation that can mitigate the threat Kiyonga spoke about political on Africa as a continent where of terrorism within Eastern Rapporteurs: Herbert violence and its objective of there are off-shoots of political Africa. Participants agreed that Ngabirano, Ben Kokas instilling fear in places where terrorism and some groups focus Parliaments need to occupy a Okiror, Olive Eyotoru and governance is often weak. The on religious radical elements. He more central role in counter- Marin Basala (Parliament of lecture examined the effects of noted that ‘ineffective’ states are terrorism strategy. Uganda) terrorism which include threats fertile grounds for terrorists. Professor Kasaijja agreed to state survival, mass loss of life Dr Kiyonga also highlighted with the lecture that there is no and impediments to economic the challenges of dealing with universal definition of terrorism. development. terrorists in Africa. These include He noted that after the events He noted that Africa is the the challenges of intelligence of September 11, 2001 in the

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United States, a resolution on terrorism was reached by the United Nations (Resolution 1373). He mentioned that the factors which augment the occurrence of terrorism include inequalities, unemployment etc. Technological advancements coupled with weak systems have made it easy to facilitate and find funding for terrorism. He noted that Somalia falls under the category of very high in respect to susceptibility to terrorism. Some of these challenges within the region include: • Illicit financial flows ($50 bn USD in 2018) - monies that do not go through the formal banking channels are easy to divert to fund terrorist activities. • Easing of currency controls which allows for faster financial transactions. standards. It is also vital to track he argued that Parliaments are The Commonwealth Parliamentary • Refugee flows across the and monitor returning ‘foreign not working in close tandem Association Lecture Series offers CPA continent. fighters’ to avoid grooming with the Executive branch of Members a unique opportunity to hear • Uncontrolled migration. sleeper cells; for instance, ISIS government on matters of from distinguished Parliamentarians • International treaties not fighters come from 33 states – security. The Parliamentary and experts in the field, who have ratified domestically. the biggest number being from Committees overseeing the made an outstanding contribution to Professor Kasaijja suggested Tunisia (over 2,000 fighters). security sector are not given their nation’s democracy and to the that Parliaments are central in It is there critical to pursue adequate latitude to carry out institution of Parliament. Collectively, developing counter terrorism de-radicalisation of returning a comprehensive oversight this series of lectures will contribute not legislation. There is need for ‘foreign fighters’. mandate. This leaves the only to the CPA’s continuing dialogue regularly updating policies Hon. Simon Mulongo noted Committees with inadequate within its membership, but also to and national legislation and that Somalia is the one of the capacity to monitor national reach out beyond to other stakeholders Parliaments need to look into most dangerous ‘hotspots’ security. such as members of the international the root causes of terrorism – in respect of terrorism. He Going forward, there is a need community, the diplomatic corps, civil social frustrations, poverty and emphasized that the Horn of to stop the terrorist organisations society and the wider public. unemployment. At the same time, Africa and Great Lakes Region is from acquiring the technology intelligence services need to a hotbed of terrorist activity and that they use. There is a need The first Commonwealth CPA Lecture be strengthened but this needs that this is linked to its peculiar to address the root causes of for the CPA Africa Region was given to be done within human rights geo-political setting. terrorist activities. by Dr Benjamin Bewa-Nyog Kunbuor, standards and there is also a There is therefore a need to former Minister for Defence, Justice, need to address the content of address the ‘push’ factors and Interior and Health and Attorney- social media, which is often used origins of terrorism in Eastern General of Ghana on the topic of to radicalise the population. Africa. There is a need for proper ‘Parliaments of CPA countries in the He also suggested that laws to enforce counterterrorism Africa Region: Their Role in Human Regional Parliaments and and the proliferation of small Rights Thought and Action’ in the international parliamentary arms exacerbates the threat margins of the 48th CPA Africa organisations need to do of terrorism. Several terrorist Regional Conference hosted by Imo more to promote dialogue organisations have many ‘sleeper State, Nigeria in October 2017. and information sharing. He cells’ in the region and have built emphasised that the relationship a regional base, drawn from Commonwealth CPA Lectures have between counterterrorism and different countries and ethnic also taken place in the following human rights is a sensitive groups. CPA Regions: Asia; British Islands issue and so measures must be In regard to the role of and Mediterranean; Caribbean, adopted in line with human rights Parliament in counterterrorism, Americas and the Atlantic; Pacific.

The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing | 313 CONFERENCE NEWS: CPA SMALL BRANCHES

Commonwealth Parliamentarians from CPA Small Branches focus on the unique challenges affecting the smallest Legislatures across the Commonwealth at 37th annual CPA Small Branches Conference in Uganda

With the increased logistical, financial and infrastructure of service delivery as larger Legislatures and in doing so, they demands facing small jurisdictions in the Commonwealth, recognise the importance of constantly innovating in the face Parliamentarians met to examine the unique challenges they of fiscal and human resource constraints; and the threats in face. The 37th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) the face of climate change to some of the Commonwealth’s Small Branches Conference was held in Kampala, Uganda with most vulnerable.” Members of Parliaments and Legislatures from CPA Small The CPA Chairperson also thanked the CPA Small Branches attending the conference. The conference discussed Branches Chairperson, Hon. Angelo Farrugia for his three- strategies to meet the unique developmental needs of the year term and important work in highlighting the unique CPA’s smallest Legislatures through key thematic seminars challenges facing small Legislatures and congratulated and development activities that will build parliamentary capacity the newly elected Chairperson of the CPA Small Branches for CPA Small Branches and create greater opportunities for Designate, Hon. Niki Rattle, Speaker of the Parliament of the sharing of knowledge, parliamentary strengthening and the Cook Islands upon her election by the delegates to the cooperation across the network. CPA Small Branches Conference. The CPA Small Branches Chairperson, Hon. Angelo The CPA Small Branches Conference included four Farrugia, MP, Speaker of the House of Representatives of the plenary sessions exploring key themes proposed by the Parliament of Malta said at the opening of the Small Branches Membership. In the margins of the conference, the initial Conference: “The CPA Small Branches Conference will help cohort of the CPA Small Branches Steering Committee to build capacities for the small Parliaments and Legislatures met for the first time, following the decision of the CPA of the Commonwealth and create greater and more constant Executive Committee at their Mid-Year Meeting in Mauritius opportunities for the sharing of knowledge and cooperation 2018 for the formation of this new committee. The CPA across the CPA network. The CPA Small Branches need to Small Branches Steering Committee comprises the CPA come together to address their common difficulties, common Small Branches Chairperson and seven Commonwealth strengths and their shared experiences.” Parliamentarians who represent the seven Regions of the During his three-year term as the CPA Small Branches CPA with Small Branches: Africa; Australia; British Isles and Chairperson, Hon. Angelo Farrugia has highlighted the Mediterranean; Canada; Caribbean, Americas and the the importance of tackling climate change for the 53 Atlantic; Pacific; and South-East Asia. Commonwealth countries, especially its 31 small and Of the over 180 Branches of the CPA, forty-three developing states which are often the least polluting but the Branches are classified as ‘Small Branches’ which first casualties of climate change and delegates had the are defined as jurisdictions having a population below opportunity to discuss a newly developed CPA handbook on 500,000 people. Examples of CPA Small Branches include climate change during the CPA Small Branches Conference. Commonwealth countries such as Barbados and Tonga, as The Chairperson of the CPA International Executive well UK Overseas Territories such as Turks and Caicos or Committee, Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, MP, Deputy states and provinces within larger countries like Northwest Speaker of the National Assembly of Cameroon said: “The Territories in Canada. The CPA Headquarters Secretariat CPA works with the Small Branches in all the regions and works closely with Small Branches in all Regions of the we extend full cooperation in strengthening parliamentary CPA to identify their unique needs and requirements in democracy. The CPA’s priorities include supporting all of our parliamentary strengthening, development and cooperation. Small Branches in meeting their challenges. The smallest of The 37th CPA Small Branches Conference took place as the CPA’s Legislatures seek to meet the same expectations part of the wider 64th CPC in Kampala, Uganda.

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37th CPA Small Branches Conference 23 to 24 September 2019

CPA Small Branches opening ceremony - 23 September 2019

CPA SMALL BRANCHES CHAIRPERSON SAYS ‘CPA SMALL BRANCHES CONFERENCE WILL HELP TO BUILD CAPACITIES FOR THE SMALL PARLIAMENTS AND LEGISLATURES OF THE COMMONWEALTH’

The CPA Small Branches Chairperson, Hon. Angelo Farrugia, MP, Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Parliament of Malta gave the opening address at the 37th CPA Small Branches Conference.

I would like to welcome delegates have come to the conclusion development opportunities for outstanding Chairpersons and to the 37th Small Branches that CPA Small Branches are Parliamentarians from CPA Small successors and I look forward to Conference in the history of the perfectly placed to trial new Branches will all be discussed by seeing my legacy carried forward CPA, here in Kampala, Uganda. technologies which can later be highly reputable external experts and to see them achieve and Firstly, I would like to congratulate upscaled and used on bigger and from delegates from our reach out further to develop the our generous hosts for the set up players. In Malta, for example, CPA Small Branches family. capacity and influence of the of this conference and the 64th has earmarked Gozo to be used In addition, we have just had CPA Small Branches network Commonwealth Parliamentary as a pilot project for switching to the first Small Branches Steering on an even greater scale. I will Conference in the days to come. 100% electric vehicles. Committee meeting in the history always be proud to have initiated It is a bittersweet feeling as this To that end, one of the of the CPA, which, as you will agree this work and look forward to is my last Conference as Small sessions of this Conference with me, is a terrific milestone. watching the network grow in Branches Chairperson, however, will be dedicated to asking you, Lastly, it pains me to leave the capacity and importance. needless to say that I am immensely the representative of the CPA position as the first Chairperson I would like to augur a fruitful proud that through hard work with Small Branches, what your of the CPA Small Branches Conference, which I am sure will Members, the CPA Headquarters, representatives have done to network. Nevertheless, I know leave an indelible mark on our and our tireless commitment has led mitigate the challenge of climate that both colleagues who are work, despite the limited resources to the development of the Strategic change, so your peers as well as running for election will make we have. Now, let’s get to work! Plan for CPA Small Branches the larger states can learn from and the first CPA Small Branches your expertise and experiences Steering Committee, which is and we can spread good practice present and complete today, has for the benefit of the global been constituted. community. In addition, the first meeting May I encourage you to give of the CPA Small Branches your very best to this issue of Steering Committee has been a climate change - in the words of particularly productive one with former UN Secretary-General several key targets established. Ban Ki-Moon, “we do not have We, the CPA Small Branches, a planet B.” Therefore, there is met in Nairobi, Kenya last year no option B when it comes to to discuss how we can tackle succeeding in this endeavour. the global challenge of climate Additionally, other thought- change, being those states most provoking topics will feature affected by it and yet small in at this conference such as comparison to the big polluters the cultural adaptation to the causing the problem. We came Westminster model in CPA to the conclusion that CPA Small Small Branches, the issue Branches need to step up and be of ‘Brexit’ for CPA Small united more strongly to lobby the Branches, and the importance bigger States. We also, however, of training and professional

The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing | 315 CONFERENCE NEWS: CPA SMALL BRANCHES

Newly elected CPA Small Branches Chairperson speaks of the pressing need of small Legislatures within the Commonwealth to come together to address common difficulties and strengths and share experiences of their Parliaments

The newly elected Chairperson of the CPA Small Branches, Hon. Niki Rattle, Speaker of the Parliament of the Cook Islands has pledged that the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) would have a strengthened and renewed focus on assisting Small Branches and their Parliaments and Legislatures. The Members of the CPA attending the 37th CPA Small Branches Conference elected the Speaker of the Cook Islands as the new Chairperson of Small Branches for a three-year term. The role of Chairperson of Small Branches is an Officer role within the CPA’s governance structure and the new incumbent will sit on the CPA International Executive Committee to bring a voice for Small Branches to the governing body of the CPA. In her acceptance remarks, Hon. Niki Rattle expressed her gratitude to the Members of the CPA Small Branches, who have shown great trust in electing her as their Chairperson. She spoke about the pressing need of The outgoing CPA Small Branches Chairperson is small Legislations within the Commonwealth to come Hon. Angelo Farrugia, MP, Speaker of the House of together, within their ‘smallness’ to address common Representatives of the Parliament of Malta who has held difficulties and strengths and share experiences of their the office from 2016 until 2019. Hon. Angelo Farrugia Parliaments or Legislative Assemblies. As small states in has worked tirelessly in promoting the CPA Small the Commonwealth, among other small countries, the CPA Branches within the wider CPA network and establishing Small Branches have learnt to appreciate their strengths a CPA Small Branches strategic plan which has given while being flexible enough to be able to work with other increased focus to the work of the CPA in areas such as larger Parliaments and to be influential. climate change which severely impacts on the smallest Hon. Niki Rattle was appointed as the Cook Islands’ jurisdictions in the Commonwealth. Speaker and CPA Cook Islands Branch President in 2012; Under CPA election rules only delegates from CPA being reappointed in 2014 and 2018. She is an extremely Small Branches to the 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary active Parliamentarian and former CPA Executive Conference could take part in the vote to elect a new CPA Committee Representative for the CPA Pacific Region. A Small Branches Chairperson. There were two candidates registered nurse, she was the first Pacific Chairperson of for the position of CPA Small Branches Chairperson: Hon. the International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Niki Rattle, Speaker of the Cook Islands Parliament; and Crescent and she is highly regarded internationally for her Hon. Juan Watterson, SHK, Speaker of the House of skills of conciliation, strategic leadership and advocacy. Keys at the Parliament of the Isle of Man (Tynwald). The She was an eminent member of the International election of the new Chairperson of Small Branches took Federation Election Committee, and she is known for her place at the 37th CPA Small Branches Conference held contribution to rules of procedures and ethics. Confronted in Kampala, Uganda as part of the 64th Commonwealth with complex procedural issues, she pushed for enhanced Parliamentary Conference. legislative and financial scrutiny and development Of the over 180 Branches of the CPA, forty-three of the Parliament. She is an advocate for economic, Branches are classified as ‘Small Branches’ which are social, and political empowerment in Small Island and defined as jurisdictions having a population below 500,000 Developing States (SIDS) and is committed to fostering people. The CPA Headquarters Secretariat works closely strong, connected Legislatures. She is passionate about with Small Branches in all Regions of the CPA to identify community, prevention of violence, women’s leadership, their unique needs and requirements in parliamentary health and disaster-risk reduction. strengthening, development and cooperation.

To read the 64th CPC Conference Concluding Statement please visit www.cpahq.org/cpahq/cpc2019concludingstatement.

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37th CPA Small Branches Conference 23 to 24 September 2019

CPA Small Branches Session 1 - 23 September 2019 HOW DO COMMONWEALTH COUNTRIES (AND CPA SMALL BRANCHES IN PARTICULAR), THAT ALL OSTENSIBLY BASE THEIR PARLIAMENTARY PROCEDURES AND PRACTICES ON THE WESTMINSTER MODEL, IMPLEMENT CULTURALLY APPROPRIATE MEASURES INCLUDING INSTITUTIONAL DESIGN?

Moderator: Hon. This session focused on in Nunavut, one of Canada’s adapted the Westminster system discussions around how Northern Territories, which has to their Territorial Government Angelo Farrugia, MP, Commonwealth countries, synchronised the Westminster by having no political parties Speaker of the House of including small state jurisdictions model and its cultural situation. and Members are elected Representatives (Malta) that base their parliamentary With extreme weather conditions, as Independents. Under this procedures and practices on the inaccessible by road, despite the arrangement, the Prime Minister and CPA Small Branches Westminster model, implement abundant resources available, this and Ministers are elected by the Chairperson culturally appropriate measures territory has no political parties. The Members of the Assembly. The including institutional design. challenge was to have procedures Assembly can also have them It was highlighted that whereas and institutions that reflect on its fired. This depicts a blend of Discussion Leaders: the Westminster Model has aboriginal society. Governance their traditional values and the • Hon. Gervais Henrie, demonstrated its success as a is by consensus through the Westminster model. It shows MP (Seychelles) form of government through its caucuses of the whole house and how the adaptation of what was widespread presence across the non-Cabinet Ministers, hence originally the Westminster System • Professor Frederick Commonwealth, in many cases, the the adaptation and adoption to can fit quite different sets of Stapenhurst, McGill process of adaptation has struggled procedures that deviate from the circumstances. University, Canada and, in some instances, the process Westminster model. While they Professor Stapenhurst cited itself has been part of the problem. adopted the Westminster model, Denmark which had the first Professor Frederick they wanted to also reflect their Public Accounts Committee. Rapporteurs: Ms Olive Eyotaru Stapenhurst (McGill University, traditional values. It is an extra Parliament Pre- and Mr William Lubowa Canada) started the discussion In order to keep a semblance Committee comprised of (Parliament of Uganda) by sharing the experience of both systems, they have Members of Parliament and citizens. It was established to bring in outside expertise that was not within Parliament yet was needed to analyse public accounts. He emphasised the need to initiate dialogue across the Commonwealth, particularly within small states, on some of these policy issues. Hon. Gervais Henrie, MP (Seychelles) noted that most former colonies of the United Kingdom across the world have adapted the Westminster System. These countries negotiated to

The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing | 317 ADAPTION, ENGAGEMENT, AND EVOLUTION OF PARLIAMENTS IN A RAPIDLY CHANGING COMMONWEALTH bring the harmony of their own should not simply rely on what is from the Falkland Islands where genuinely from them, how can historical reality to the new country reported in the media but educate some of the Statutory Committees we accomplish the target that we that they were going to form, themselves to understand the have more lay Members than want? He noted that this was an through using the Westminster impact and reality of climate Legislators, so it is possible for ongoing conversation. System as a platform or model to change, especially in small them to overrule the elected Hon. Kim Herbert Swan, set up their assemblies and build countries, to be able to make Members. He observed that small MP (Bermuda) noted that in the on it. He cited his own country, better informed decisions. states have over the years worked Westminster System, there are Seychelles, which initially adopted Hon. Kenneth Bryan, MP out ways through which they can Labour Unions and Chambers the Westminster System, where (Cayman Islands) questioned adapt the Westminster Model of Commerce which represent the Prime Minister is the Head the composition of the Public style effectively to suit their own interest groups. As we look at of Government. It later adopted Accounts Committee in Denmark, circumstances. CPA Small Branches, we need the system of the President as noting that while it makes sense Hon. Dr Alex Allinson, MHK to take into account the fact that the Head of State because there to co-opt private sector individuals, (Isle of Man) asked about the there are number of people who were divisions on the Island. there might be potential for issue of affirmative action through are directly impacted by income In order to bring harmony and conflict in instances where having quotas that endeavour inequality and are dependent on stability in the country, people non-legislators overrule elected to include gender, cultural and their voting bloc to communicate were allowed to directly elect Members’ decisions. disability groups in Government their voice. If we leave it to their President, as opposed to the On the issue of addressing and Parliament in particular. His persons who will be happy say not Westminster Model that fronts global warming, he observed concern was to the effect that to have political parties, they will the Prime Minister as Head of that the majority of the issues the Westminster model does not have no representation. Even with Government. He recommended that have accelerated climate provide for special interest groups, their voting bloc, they still have to that countries should look at their change are as a result of financial particularly in terms of small fight against the system which is own realities and build systems influence. He noted that usually nations which may be divided heavily stacked against them. that fit into their own democracies. many of the people who fund along ethnic lines. He wondered The Westminster model Delegates were told that politicians and parties are the how this could be incorporated. is premised on parliamentary if states are to consider the same ones who dump plastics For instance, can Parliaments sovereignty, an Executive Westminster System and its that show up on the shores find ways of adopting affirmative answerable to the people success, they should focus of water bodies but are not action to get people to be through Parliament, Cabinet beyond Parliament and look at reprimanded by lawmakers. He represented in Parliament? decisions taken and implemented how other institutions like the asked how this can be resolved. Professor Frederick by a neutral civil service and judiciary, army and public service Hon. Gervais Henrie, MP Stapenhurst (McGill University, accountability to the Cabinet. work. He emphasised the need (Seychelles) responded that it is Canada) responded that affirmative However, an apolitical public to look at this as a system of all about money and profits. He action across the board must be service in a jurisdiction of less governance beyond Parliament emphasised the need to humanise welcomed. Uganda and other than 500,000 people is untenable but also other structures that climate change as the future and African countries have embraced as ethnicity and dormant tribes support the running of a country if it is not prioritised and nothing is affirmative action through potentially influence society, altogether. done, money will not save us. representation of groups in hence creating the difference. He also spoke about Hon. Barry Elsby, MLA Parliament. He lauded Uganda for CPA Small Branches ought to climate change and sustainable (Falklands Islands), while giving being the first country to reserve examine their own realities and development. Delegates were the example of Denmark’s Public seats for Persons with Disabilities. build systems based on their told that climate change is Accounts Committee, noted the Hon. Gervais Henrie, MP uniqueness. not just science but a political difficulty of having few elected (Seychelles) responded that the At the end of the session decision. Consequently, countries Members. He gave an example allocation of seats to various discussions, the two minority groups is recommendations were endorsed something that is as follows: being championed in • Each Parliament should take different countries. advantage of Westminster In Southern Africa, flexible procedures to apply through the Southern changes that actually work African Development in modern times, suiting Community (SADC), cultural and historical countries are being realities. encouraged to do so. • CPA Small Branches shall However, even if we develop legislatures that would like to increase fit their contexts and look the number of women to the experience of other in Parliament but CPA Small Branches for if it is not coming examples of good practice.

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37th CPA Small Branches Conference 23 to 24 September 2019

CPA Small Branches Session 2 - 23 September 2019 INNOVATION IN PARLIAMENT: THE POSSIBLE EFFECTS OF ‘BREXIT’ ON CPA SMALL BRANCHES

Moderator: Hon. Dr W. This workshop session focused on effective working together to Islands’ income comes from fish McKeeva Bush, OBE, the possible effects of ‘Brexit’ on ensure their voices are heard. caught from their waters and 98% CPA Small Branches. ‘Brexit’ is not Hon. Dr Barry Elsby, MLA of the fish products are exported MLA, Speaker of the just a matter between the United (Falkland Islands) opened his tax and duty free into the EU, Legislative Assembly Kingdom and the European Union presentation by noting that the mainly into Northern Spain. He said (Cayman Islands) but also concerns the CPA Small Falkland Islands do not question that the worst-case scenario for a Branches and perhaps it could ‘Brexit’ or the rights of the people no deal ‘Brexit’ would mean that extend to larger Parliaments that of UK to make their own decisions the Falkland Islands’ fish exports to Discussion Leaders: are former colonies of the United about their future. Instead, the the UK will probably be subject to • Deputy Kirsten Morel Kingdom. Falkland Islands have to deal 18% tax, which will seriously harm The degree of uncertainty will with the outcomes of ‘Brexit’. For the fish industry. Similarly, the meat (Jersey) depend on whether the European instance, they have to deal with industry might be hit by 42% tax in • Hon. Dr Barry Elsby, Union Regulatory Framework will a Westminster Parliament that case of a no deal ‘Brexit’. This will MLA (Falkland still have direct effect on the United has been polarised by ‘Brexit’ reduce the meat industry overnight Kingdom. There are concerns with the two main political parties in the Falkland Islands. Islands) about ‘Brexit’ but the uncertainties in disagreement. He further Amid these uncertainties, • Hon. David Agius, MP are of great concern to CPA Small said that the status quo has Dr Elsby said that the Falkland (Malta) Branches. ‘Brexit’ possesses two been made more complex by Islands has been trying to get their scenarios; either the Overseas the emergence of a third group message to the UK Government Territories align themselves of independents in Parliament and this message has been Rapporteurs: Ms Mataka Janet with the United Kingdom in all who have either been expelled consistent, clear and based Gladys and Mr Basala Martin circumstances or depart from the by their party or just left. Amidst on research. He proposed the (Parliament of Uganda) agenda and programme of the these political developments, following ways in which CPA Small United Kingdom. the future is uncertain and the Branches can get their voices Deputy Kirsten Morel (Jersey) likelihood of another election heard without being drowned out started the discussion by putting is high. This could end up in a by regional or national ones: ‘Brexit’ into context. He said that coalition government which may • Know your subject well, get the implications of ‘Brexit’ are take a long time to actually decide qualified people to produce uncertain, far reaching and not its agenda in regard to the UK evidence and papers needed only of concern to the UK but for Overseas Territories and Crown • Know how to access the CPA Small Branches as well. Dependencies. people that you need to talk to Nevertheless, he said that On the impact of ‘Brexit’, he • CPA Small Branches should CPA Small Branches can deal underscored that the Falkland insist they are heard at the with the consequences of ‘Brexit’ Islands have been trading tax and highest levels like Select by working together through quota free with the EU since the Committees sharing knowledge and extending early 1980s because they are a • Use any organisation you networks. Together, CPA Small UK Overseas Territory. With the can to amplify your voice, Branches can get their messages ‘Brexit’ possibility, all this might for instance, the United across clearly. Although small change eventually affecting Kingdom Overseas Territories states are affected by larger major industries and incomes. For Association (UKOTA) and powers, they can be more instance, 40% of the Falkland Joint Ministerial Council (JMC).

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Hon. David Agius, MP (Malta) relations with the UK. According impact the panellists’ jurisdictions Parliament would meet regularly emphasised the uncertainty to the study by the European and relationships with the UK? to discuss and decide on pertinent brought by ‘Brexit’. However, he Parliament on the effects of the Hon. Juan Watterson, SHK, issues, instead of waiting for said that uncertainty has always UK withdrawal on EU integration, Speaker of the House of Keys the annual Commonwealth existed and past generations have the withdrawal of the UK is not (Isle of Man) inquired from the conference during which issues put in place various mechanisms a short-term process and will panellists what the best ‘Brexit’ are not exhaustively addressed. to deal with it. Part of these influence the EU for a decade or scenario could look like. A member from the Cayman mechanisms are institutions that more. He added that regardless of Hon. Dr Barry Elsby, MLA Islands told delegates that there is contribute to stability, especially in the ‘Brexit’ outcomes, it is important (Falkland Islands) responded by no doubt ‘Brexit’ will have an effect times of uncertainty. to have a contingency and saying that the Falkland Island’s on them, regardless of whether it’s a He said that undoubtedly, the preparedness plan in place. opinion is that the UK will always hard or soft ‘Brexit’. He called upon EU Integration Project has had Hon. David Agius also said that be strong. He further said that the all delegates to consider that they sit great economic importance for ‘Brexit’ is an opportunity for the Falkland Islands is tied both to together and develop contingency millions of citizens in the continent remaining EU member states to UK and to the EU and its role is plans that will help in addressing the and the UK has always been a integrate further. He advised that to make the UK Government fully post ‘Brexit’ outcomes. major player in all this. For instance, since ‘Brexit’ uncertainty has boosted aware of the likely impacts. The three recommendations the EU single market has managed foreign investment into the EU since Hon. V. Arden McLean, MLA at the workshop were endorsed to deliver peace and prosperity the referendum, the remaining EU (Cayman Islands) told delegates as follows: towards Europe. The economic members can take advantage of that he doesn’t think the UK • CPA Small Branches, integration has been a steady this development. He argued that has time to listen to CPA Small especially sub-nationals, process that strengthened trade although small states like Malta Branches. In recent times, there should effectively participate and economic growth based on may lose an important ally in the UK has been no special privileges in decision making to democracy, human rights and the following ‘Brexit’, the Commonwealth given to them, and the UK House ensure that they have input rule of law. These benefits were countries together, can do much of Commons thinks that Overseas in policies that will directly realised despite the European more to expand their trade links Territories are dependent on it. He affect them. Union being characterised by with United Kingdom. In addition, inquired from the panel, that in the • CPA Small Branches should different levels of integration for the Commonwealth offers an ideal event that there is no deal, will the extend their networks for different countries. platform for the United Kingdom to UK see CPA Small Branches as sharing information and best Regarding the impact of ‘Brexit’ advance its trade agenda. an opportunity? practice to better tackle major on the EU, Hon. David Agius Deputy Lyndon Trott Hon. David Agius, MP (Malta) common challenges such as said that the result of the ‘Brexit’ (Guernsey) indicated that a severe responded to the question on ‘Brexit’ and climate change. referendum in 2016 has led the recession may follow a hard ‘Brexit’ whether the UK has time to • Legislatures must recalibrate European Integration Project eventually resulting in less tax listen to CPA Small Branches their relations with the United to a crossroads. He further said revenues in the UK and that may by urging all delegates to think Kingdom. Although risks and that ‘Brexit’ might in the long run translate into significantly less about his proposal. The proposal uncertainties are predominate, result in the disruption of EU resources being directed towards was to have a Commonwealth the opportunities ‘Brexit’ internal equilibrium and hence, the savings investment schemes. Parliament with one or two will present must not be Legislatures must recalibrate their He questioned how this might members from each state. This undermined.

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37th CPA Small Branches Conference 23 to 24 September 2019

CPA Small Branches Session 3 - 24 September 2019 WHAT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND TRAINING IS REQUIRED TO DEVELOP FOCUSED AND TALENTED PARLIAMENTARIANS?

Moderator: Hon. Gervais This workshop session examined pointed out honesty, empathy, the importance of learning for Henrie, MP (Seychelles) the different professional being sensible, confidence, being Parliamentarians and the fact development and training models a good communicator, energetic, that politicians need to have the are available to develop focused and having leadership abilities. commitment to learn. She pointed Discussion Leaders: and talented Parliamentarians. She observed that these can be out that the selection criteria • Mrs Robyn Lambley, This session specifically focused developed and improved. She of Parliamentarians is central on the professional development pointed out that Parliamentarians to the democratic process; and MLA (Northern and training required to build come with different life and work that while selecting individual Territory) the capacity and efficiency of experiences, trainings, skills, and Parliamentarians, it is important • Hon. Patricia Parliamentarians from the CPA prior legislative experiences from to look at their talents and skills Small Branches, amongst the smaller assemblies, among other and see how to these can be Gordon-Pamplin, MP Commonwealth jurisdictions. It things. She argued that whereas it developed further to enhance (Bermuda) explored the experiences and is easy to define the needs for new Parliamentarians’ performance. • Professor Frederick approaches used by experts and Parliamentarians, it is not always She observed that newly elected CPA Small Branches, with the aim easy for those that have been Members who come with a majority Stapenhurst (McGill to better inform participants of the around for a number of years. should propel their talents to be University, Canada) opportunities and tools they and Robyn Lambley expressed able to reach out and serve even their Parliaments have in order to reservations about in-house the minority in their constituencies, Rapporteurs: Frank strengthen their work. training methods for CPA Small territories and countries. Mutagubya and Mohammed Capacity building and Branches, observing that this may She underscored the Rukidi-Mpuga (Parliament of professional development for not provide a safe environment importance of integrity for Uganda) Parliamentarians of smaller, for training and brings limited Parliamentarians and pointed out newer and reformed Legislatures exposure. She recommended that it should be emphasised in has received increased attention that Parliamentarians from the their training. She highlighted some from Parliaments, agencies and CPA Small Branches should be examples of training that could be other service providers, after years facilitated to travel to different appropriate for Parliamentarians of little research and support territories or jurisdictions and gain including the rules of debate and behind the practice. exposure and new ideas. She conduct of business; importance of With this broadening of the cited an example of the twining preparation and research and use practices, significant questions initiative between the Northern of materials such as articles from are being asked about what Territory Legislative Assembly with the Commonwealth Parliamentary may constitute an effective Parliaments in the Pacific Region. Association’s publications like programme for development She encouraged Parliamentarians The Parliamentarian and other for Parliamentarians to improve from the CPA Small Branches international associations; law making, representation and to participate in engagements attending seminars, mentoring, oversight duties in the 21st century. such as the Commonwealth ethics, honesty and integrity. Mrs Robyn Lambley, MLA Parliamentary Association fora She stressed the importance (Northern Territory) noted that because they provide invaluable of grooming future politicians there are a number of qualities learning and experiences. through Youth Parliaments needed for effective, focused and Hon. Patricia Gordon- programmes like Youth Debates; talented Parliamentarians. She Pamplin, MP (Bermuda) stressed and allowing young people to

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“Capacity building work with and be mentored by Stapenhurst revealed that with of the Legislative Assembly of political parties. support from the World Bank, the Australian Capital Territory; and professional Professor Frederick McGill University conducted a Mr Roger Phillips, Clerk of the development for Stapenhurst (McGill University, study on the role of Parliament Parliament of the Isle of Man Parliamentarians Canada) introduced to participants, in Combating Corruption. The (Tynwald); Ms Racheal Emaasit a number of training programmes findings from this study were from the Institute of Parliamentary of smaller, newer at McGill University, including incorporated into the course for Studies in Uganda; Md. Asmaiza and reformed programmes in partnership with new Parliamentarians. This training Ahmad, MLA (Perlis). the Commonwealth Parliamentary course is being rolled out to several At the end of the workshop Legislatures has Association. He announced a Commonwealth Parliaments. three recommendations were received increased newly designed course which The mentoring session endorsed as follows: attention from was developed as a result saw Parliamentarians and • That Parliamentarians from of a call for proposals from parliamentary staff given CPA Small Branches are Parliaments, Commonwealth Parliaments to the opportunity to meet actively encouraged to seek agencies and other develop a programme specifically different experts in the field professional development for members of the CPA Small of parliamentary training. The and training outside their service providers, Branches. McGill University also delegates had the opportunity jurisdictions in order to after years of has a programme for staff capacity to hear first-hand from mentors broaden their knowledge little research and and professional development who have experience in and understanding. which many CPA Small Branches professional development • CPA Small Branch capacity support behind the have attended. programmes and training for can be built by giving MPs practice.” He explained that the Parliamentarians from CPA Small the knowledge and skills programme for Commonwealth Branches. Mentors addressed required. Branches should Parliamentarians combines the challenges that Parliaments encourage MPs to attend theory and practice and employs and Parliamentarians from the the CPA-McGill University a comparative approach while CPA Small Branches face; and Professional Development allowing for national application. It worked with the participants Programme. is grounded in current procedures to foster solutions on what the • Parliaments shall encourage and practice and highlights the Commonwealth, international political parties to employ good practices and points out the organisations, Parliamentarians candidate selections that challenges. This programme takes and Parliaments can do to ensure include talented, substantive a period of one week of study that Parliamentarians are highly prospects, embracing interaction, while the rest of the skilled and high performing. The the importance of gender study is done online. mentors at this workshop session balance, and encouraging Professor Frederick included: Mr Tom Duncan, Clerk sensitivity and diversity.

CPA Small Branches Steering Committee meet for the first time at CPA conference in Uganda

In the margins of the conference, the first meeting of the CPA Small Branches Steering Committee took place. The CPA Small Branches Steering Committee comprises the CPA Small Branches Chairperson and seven Commonwealth Parliamentarians who represent the seven Regions of the CPA with Small Branches: Africa; Australia; British Isles and the Mediterranean; Canada; Caribbean, Americas and the Atlantic; Pacific; and South-East Asia.

64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference: CPA Flickr Images Albums: For images of the 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference please visit: www.cpahq.org/cpahq/flickr.

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37th CPA Small Branches Conference 23 to 24 September 2019

CPA Small Branches Session 4 - 24 September 2019 CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE POSSIBLE EFFECTS ON CPA SMALL BRANCH ECONOMIES AND DEVELOPMENT

Moderator: Hon. This workshop was premised been ongoing for a long time, but and legislation are put in place. on climate change and its no decisive and lasting solutions States within the Angelo Farrugia, MP, possible effects on the CPA seem to have been reached. He Commonwealth must Speaker of the House of Small Branches’ economies and expressed concern at the absence commit and adhere to the Representatives (Malta) development. The discussion of Brazil, the USA and Saudi Arabia Commonwealth Blue Charter, centered on how climate change at the recent UN Climate Change which is an agreement by all and CPA Small Branches action can be integrated into Summit that took place from 53 Commonwealth countries Chairperson progress towards achievement 21-23 September 2019. to actively co-operate to solve of the SDGs; what initiatives CPA The CPA Small Branches ocean-related problems and meet Small Branches have made in Chairperson, however, indicated commitments for sustainable Discussion Leaders: mitigating and adapting to climate that he was indeed gratified by the ocean development. • Hon. Melvin Turnbull, change; how governments, UN Secretary-General, António Hon. Alex Muscat, MP also MHA (British Virgin Parliaments and civil society in Guterres’s positive attitude and reiterated that small island CPA Small Branches can work statement on the issue of climate developing states are crippled Islands) together to influence the global change when he said: “I am by the adverse effects of climate • Hon. Alex Muscat, MP climate change agenda. hopeful that time is running out but change and this affects their (Malta) The Chairperson of the not too late.” development. He, however, noted CPA Small Branches, Hon. Hon. Alex Muscat, MP (Malta) that the UN Convention on Climate • Mr Robert Ondhowe, Angelo Farrugia, MP, Speaker emphasised the importance of Change is a good instrument UNEP Consultant of Parliament (Malta) noted that regular meetings to forge ways of that can be a stepping-stone for (Former Legal Officer, the CPA Small Branches and solving climate change challenges mitigation against climate change small island developing states collectively. He also reminded effects. He further indicated that UNEP) (SIDS) are affected the most by the meeting that the CPA Small small island states are the most the effects of climate change. He Branches launched a strategic affected as the majority of the Rapporteurs: Mr Herbert added that small island economies plan, premised on the purpose of population live near water bodies. Ngabirano and Ms Ophelia face huge challenges of climate mitigating the challenge of climate He explained the interventions Nahabwe (Parliament of change due to a higher degree change. He also noted that climate that have been adopted in Europe Uganda) of exposure to the vagaries of change is a universal challenge to mitigate climate change effects nature. This includes, but not that does not discriminate. especially to regulate green- limited to, sea level rises, storms Climate change is important house emissions. He highlighted and continued increases in air and to small island states because of strict observation of international ocean surface temperatures. a number of factors liking rising agreements on climate change, As such, the economies of tides and high temperatures including the Montreal Convention. small island developing states that lead to fatalities and He further emphasised that face a tougher and an almost other disasters. And so, small small island states should borrow a impossible challenge of meeting island states must ensure the leaf from the interventions adopted the Sustainable Development implementation of the Kyoto in Europe. He used the example Goals (SDGs) and their targets. Protocol and the 2015 Paris of Malta to explain some of the The CPA Small Branches Agreement. Parliaments should interventions that other small Chairperson further noted that hold governments accountable island states could learn from. He the debate on climate change has and ensure that relevant policies revealed climate statistics that

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climate change. He emphasised that it is important for Members of Parliament from small island states to join hands and collectively find lasting solutions. He also reiterated the effects of long-term climate change disasters. Hurricanes Irma and Maria were the most devastating natural disasters that have affected the British Virgin Islands and have cost the nation one billion US Dollars. Moreover, they were closely followed by other hurricanes. As such, the main productive sectors like tourism were severely affected. Hon. Melvin Turnbull, MHA listed a number of types of damage caused the hurricanes show how Malta is progressing in relationship with CPA had greatly their commitment to climate and their lasting negative impact mitigating the effects of climate improved over the six years. change mitigation and adaptation. on the economy. Hotel, retail, change. A new era for use of He took the delegates Hon. Melvin Turnbull, MHA transportation and construction natural gas has, for instance, been through the web-based toolkit (British Virgin Islands) reminded were some of the most affected adopted and as a result, cleaner that UNEP and other UN bodies the workshop of the theme that sub-sectors. He noted that going technologies have emerged. had designed for climate change was coined in October 2018 by the forward, it was critically vital to Hon. Alex Muscat, MP also adaptation initiatives in order CPA Small Branches: “Live with foster dialogue amongst small explained the negative effects to achieve the SDGs. Among the end in mind.” Parliamentarians island states to adapt to and be of climate change on tourism, others, this included the UN must foster a dialogue to build better prepared for the effects food security and subsistence Environmental Legal Response resilience to the effects of climate of climate change. He also agriculture. He listed a range initiative, where a pool of lawyers change that affect the economies shared some of the interventions of effects of climate change and technical experts were of their states. undertaken by the British Virgin specifically those that impact on available online to respond to He narrated the catastrophic Islands in the House of Assembly low-lying islands. These result into questions related to climate events of Hurricanes Irma and in relation to addressing the a number of consequences that change and related topical issues. Maria that put very many lives in challenges associated with are suffered by the population of He also noted that UNEP was danger in the CPA Caribbean, climate change. These include island states. engaging financial institutions to Americas and Atlantic Region, setting up a fund specifically for He also enumerated a number seek a coalition with an intention including himself. These hurricanes hurricanes. He indicated that in of effects of climate change on the of aligning legislation to feed into left the British Virgin Islands in a the course of the remainder of the economies of small island nations in climate action. He cautioned that state of uncertainty. On 26 August workshop session and throughout the sectors of insurance, traditional traditional models of financing 2019, another hurricane hit the the conference, he hoped to learn structures and subsistence farming. do not work. Rather, Committees British Virgin Islands. about the interventions in other Climate change has also eroded of budget allocation would yield The devastation caused by states. cultural and historical sites in the better results. hurricanes massively affected The workshop was opened Pacific islands. Developing technology-based the small island states in the to further discussions from He concluded by emphasising tools is a more relevant approach Commonwealth so much that it is delegates. Hon. Kenneth Bryan, that the 64th CPC workshop on than using traditional means no wonder that The Bahamas was MP (Cayman Islands) regretted climate change is an opportunity for of addressing climate change. unable to send any delegates to that small states are greatly the CPA Small Branches to come Parliamentarians need to scale the 64th CPC. influenced by big economies like up with interventions to mitigate the up their legislative, oversight, Hon. Melvin Turnbull, MHA the USA, who are not bothered effects of climate change. budgeting and representative also decried that small island about their contribution to global Mr Robert Ondhowe roles. These roles should be states are suffering as a result of warming. He asked how the (UNEP Consultant) started his related to climate change and selfish actions of the big nations. climate change toolkit can be presentation by congratulating should also work towards He focused his argument on the used to put proper legislation and the CPA upon partnering addressing the energy and economies and Gross Domestic policies in place to mitigate issues with UNEP in climate change gender challenge. By ratifying Product (GDP) of the territories of over-flooding, as experienced mitigation for a number of years. international frameworks, vis-à-vis the impact caused in the Cayman Islands. He was delighted that UNEP’s Parliaments will have partly met by the devastating effects of The CPA Small Branches

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Chairperson reiterated the need for particular affecting Puerto Rico. Some of the interventions in the water overflows and flooding. a concerted effort by the small island He wondered whether scientists British Virgin Islands included the He also emphasised that under nations to confront the challenges are certain about whether there is Disaster Management Act, 2018 the Paris Agreement, big nations of climate change. He also hinted a connection between hurricanes and building stronger and better responsible for large emissions on the critical importance of climate and earthquakes. Are the two structures. should be made to compensate change financing. inter-related? He also emphasised that it and help in the rebuilding of the Hon. Michael Perkins, Deputy Kirsten Morel (Jersey) is important to continue to forge devastated small island states. MP Speaker of the National noted that it is true that British partnerships, putting in place He noted that lack of political will Assembly (St Kitts and Nevis) Virgin Islands feels the effects relevant legislation and targeting on the part of some world leaders suggested that governments of climate change. He asked the coastal ways with stronger complicates the fight against should invest in sensitising their whether voices of non-sovereign structures. climate change challenges. population to build structures states are heard. Mr Robert Ondhowe noted At the end of the workshop that have strong rooms with Mr Roger Phillips, Clerk (Isle that the climate change issue discussions, the following concrete walls and roofs, which of Man) asked whether in British is a tight-rope and sensitive recommendations were can withstand weather patterns. Virgin Islands, the population is subject. However, scientific endorsed: Every home should have a home building the right houses and the evidence on climate change • Parliament must foster on a high altitude to withstand right power stations to withstand exists and the World Metrological dialogue which leads to flooding and 200 kms per hour the heavy winds. He noted that Centre provides the scientific mechanisms for building strong winds. it is important for small states to research together with the IPCC. resilience of Small Island Hon. Kim Swan, MP show the big nations that they It is noteworthy to say that the States adapting to climate (Bermuda) noted that there have are serious about the issues of evidence of climate change is change, which adversely been a number of hurricanes climate change. overwhelming. affect our GDP. around the Caribbean Region, in Hon. Melvin Turnbull, MHA He also noted that it is true • Parliamentarians have revealed that, in the wake of that small island nations are most a critical role in raising Hurricanes Irma and Maria, the affected by the decisions of the awareness to climate change, British Virgin Islands had received bigger states and yet, they have while developing appropriate unprecedented support from the limited latitude when it comes policy and legislation to United Kingdom, Puerto Rico and to seeking decision-making protect the environment and the wider Caribbean Region. In the and redress. He also noted that human rights. “Developing aftermath of these disasters, the it is important for small island • Parliaments should participate technology- British Virgin Islands embarked states to utilize Article 6 of the in initiatives and programmes on forging stronger relations for Paris Agreement which relates to by United Nations bodies based tools is a future purposes. On the issue co-operative arrangements. that facilitate mitigation and more relevant of rebuilding - in 2018, a long Mr Ondhowe cited the adaption policies, climate debate was held in the House of example of the Netherlands finance and technology in approach than using Assembly on the way forward. that forged ways of managing Small Island States. traditional means of addressing climate change. Parliamentarians need to scale up their legislative, oversight, budgeting and representative roles. These roles should be related to climate change and should also work towards addressing the energy and gender challenge.”

The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing | 325 CONFERENCE NEWS: COMMONWEALTH WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS

Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians discuss new ways to increase women’s representation in Parliament at CWP triennial conference in Uganda and mark 30th anniversary of the network women take their place in Parliament to ensure that this may come about. The CPA Chairperson, Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, MP, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of Cameroon also addressed the CWP Conference and said: “Women must look to assume leadership roles within their respective Parliaments. The topic of the sixth triennial CWP conference allows us to reflect on the successes of the last 30 years and to look ahead to the role of women in Parliaments for the future.” The CWP President (2018-2019), Hon. Syda Namirembe Bbumba, MP (Uganda) spoke to the CWP conference about her experience as a legislator in the Parliament of Uganda. The CWP Women Parliamentarians from across the Commonwealth Conference also heard from CWP Alumni Champion, Dr gathered in Kampala, Uganda for the triennial conference Lesley Clark, a former Member of Parliament of Queensland of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP), about the CWP’s mentoring initiative and her work with held ahead of the wider 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary women across the Commonwealth; Hon. Lechesa Tsenoli, Conference. The theme of the sixth Commonwealth Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly in South Africa Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Conference was ‘CWP at spoke about male champions of gender equality and the 30 years: Achievements and Unfinished Business – Looking work that male Members of Parliament can do to achieve forward to the next 30 years’ in recognition of the CWP’s 30th equality; and UK MP, Dr Roberta Blackman-Woods, MP anniversary in 2019. spoke about gender mentoring programmes at the UK The CWP Conference was opened by the outgoing Parliament and shared best practice of combating bulling Chairperson of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians, and harassment in Parliaments. Hon. Dr Dato’ Noraini Ahmad, MP (Malaysia) who has held In recognition of the 30th anniversary of the Commonwealth the office since her election in 2016 and said:“In 2019, the Women Parliamentarians (CWP) in 2019, a panel discussion Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) marks its 30th was held with the current and previous CWP Chairpersons - anniversary and can reflect on the many successes of the past Hon. Dr Dato’ Noraini Ahmad, MP (Malaysia 2106-2019); Rt three decades. The CWP envisions a world where women and Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, MP, Speaker of Parliament (Uganda men have equal access to opportunities – a world where women’s 2013-2016); Hon. Alix Boyd Knights, MHA, Speaker of the voices are recognised and respected. I urge all Parliamentarians, House of Assembly (Dominica 2010-2013); Ms Kashmala with the support of the CWP network, to pursue this vision with Tariq (Pakistan 2007-2010) and Hon. Lindiwe Maseko continued dynamism and enthusiasm. Together we can and will (South Africa 2004-2007). build the future we want, working towards a future of equal rights, Ahead of the CWP Conference, the current CWP equal opportunities and progress for all.” Chairperson and CWP Steering Committee met in Uganda Over 100 Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians representing the nine CPA Regions: Africa; Asia; Australia; attended the conference from across the Commonwealth. British Isles and the Mediterranean; Canada; Caribbean, The CWP conference saw leading figures in Commonwealth Americas and the Atlantic; India; Pacific; and South-East Asia. Parliaments addressing the conference and included The Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) four wide-ranging sessions for Commonwealth Women is the network of women Members of the Commonwealth Parliamentarians. Parliamentary Association’s Parliament and Legislatures. The CPA President, Rt Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, MP, The CWP network provides a means of building the Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda congratulated Hon. Dr capacity of women elected to parliament to be more Dato’ Noraini Ahmad, MP on her leadership, her dedicated effective in their roles; improving the awareness and ability and committed work that has brought about positive of all Parliamentarians, male and female, and encouraging results for the CWP. The CPA President went on to state them to include a gender perspective in all aspects of their that gender equality must be factored into all government role - legislation, oversight and representation and helping policies in each respective jurisdiction and it is important that Parliaments to become gender-sensitive institutions.

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Sixth triennial Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Conference 23 to 24 September 2019

CWP Conference opening ceremony - 23 September 2019 OUTGOING CWP CHAIRPERSON REFLECTS ON 30 YEARS OF CWP ACHIEVEMENTS AND LOOKS TO THE FUTURE The Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Chairperson, Hon. Dr Dato’ Noraini Ahmad, MP (Malaysia) spoke at the sixth triennial CWP Conference.

In my position as Chairperson important and contemporary and benefit of the Commonwealth the 30th anniversary of the founding of the Commonwealth Women issues. These include: family is its diversity of experience of CWP. Parliamentarians network, it gives • The importance of mentoring and perspective, there is much In recognition of this landmark me great pleasure to welcome for new Parliamentarians; more that we can agree on than year, I am very pleased to note that the you all to the opening of the 6th • Promoting women to senior we can find disagreement in. former CWP Chairpersons have very triennial Commonwealth Women portfolios and positions of Shortly following my election kindly agreed to join us for a panel Parliamentarians Conference, leadership; in 2016, I convened a meeting discussion during the CWP Business taking place in the margins • Empowering women as of the CWP Steering Committee, Meeting, following the conclusion of of this 64th Commonwealth effective legislators in the 21st together with other women the CWP triennial Conference. Parliamentary Conference. century; and, Parliamentarians from across My sincerest thanks, of course, I wish to extend my many • Combatting bullying and the Commonwealth, where we go to all former CWP Chairpersons thanks first to our gracious host, Rt harassment in Parliaments. formulated a Strategic Plan for their longstanding commitment Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, Speaker My sincere thanks in advance to for the network, which would to the CWP network and for of the Parliament of Uganda, and all Members and external experts guide our activities for the next contributing the knowledge and to the organisation and dedication who have very kindly agreed to three years. Discussions during experience gained through their that the Parliament of Uganda take part in these discussions as this meeting were energetic, distinguished careers. Notably, has committed to ensuring the discussion leaders and, with the engaged and dynamic, but they during the CWP Business Meeting, success of this Conference, and exceptional level of experience and were never acrimonious or bitter. there will also be the election for a the hospitality that has been shown expertise in this room, I believe that When women work with other new Chairperson of CWP. to us all since our arrival here, has we can all learn something from women everybody benefits and It has been an honour and been truly inspiring. the sessions scheduled to take real progress is made. a privilege to take the role I am certain that this place over the next two days. In the time since my election, and responsibilities of CWP commitment will not go Furthermore, these I have had the privilege of Chairperson for the past three unrewarded and I look forward to discussions should not end at witnessing many more instances years, I look forward to continuing a very successful and productive the conclusion of the respective of the power of collaboration - from to work within the network under Conference. session and I do recommend the presence of CWP at last year’s the leadership of a new Chair. My thanks also to the taking every opportunity to speak Commonwealth Women’s Forum I wish all delegates a very Munyonyo Commonwealth with your fellow delegates during during the 2018 Commonwealth successful and enjoyable CWP Resort for providing such the scheduled breaks and during Heads of Government Meeting in Conference and I look forward beautiful and comfortable the wider Conference activities. London to the launch of the CWP to meeting and speaking with as surroundings within we can hold The Commonwealth Alumni Initiative’s pilot scheme. many of you as possible. our workshops and discussions. Parliamentary Association is a body I do, however, Finally, and most importantly, which takes great pride in providing note that my own my thanks to all of you for being Parliamentarians, from all corners three-year term here and for representing the great of the Commonwealth, with peer- represents only family of the Commonwealth. to-peer learning and upskilling one chapter in Whether you are with us opportunities, and the programme the long history here today as a delegate, as an of the 6th triennial CWP Conference of the CWP observer, or as an invited guest, directly speaks to these aims. network. At this I encourage you to take this This philosophy is one which Conference opportunity to actively engage I have witnessed and observed we have the in the discussions, which will during my three-year term as CWP unique chance to be taking place on a variety of Chairperson. Whilst a key strength commemorate

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Newly elected Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians Chairperson pledges to increase women’s representation and political participation in Parliaments

The newly elected Chairperson of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP), Hon. Shandana Gulzar Khan, MNA of the National Assembly of Pakistan has pledged to renew the effort to increase women’s representation and political participation in Parliaments across the Commonwealth. The new Chairperson of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians was elected for a three-year term at the CWP Business Meeting held at the sixth triennial conference of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP), that took place in Kampala, Uganda as part of the wider 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference. Hon. Shandana Gulzar Khan, MNA is a Member of National Assembly of Pakistan and Parliamentary Secretary at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. A qualified legal professional with extensive knowledge and experience in international trade and economic law advocacy and an articulate communicator, fluent in three languages, she was elected to the National Assembly in August 2018. As an activist, she has worked on economic rehabilitation of abandoned post-incarceration females and providing opportunities for their families; developing training and legislation for female lawyers; as well as advising NGOs to better understand societal problems. She has authored various articles on a number of issues, including the creation of Pakistan’s first IP strategic framework, the industrial policy vacuum and has conducted many training seminars on 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference and CWP various aspects of international trade policy and development. Steering Committee Members could take part in the vote to The outgoing Chairperson of the Commonwealth elect a new CWP Chairperson. There were three candidates Women Parliamentarians is Hon. Dr Dato’ Noraini Ahmad, for the position of CWP Chairperson: Hon. Shandana MP (Malaysia) who has held the office since her election in Gulzar Khan, MNA (Pakistan); Hon. Michelle O’Byrne, MP 2016. Hon. Dr Dato’ Noraini Ahmad has worked tirelessly (Tasmania who later withdrew her candidature); and Hon. in promoting inter-regional cooperation among members Tara Rivers, JP, MLA (Cayman Islands). of the CWP and launched a new CWP strategic plan, which has led to many new activities, geared towards the Below: Ahead of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians strengthening of Women Parliamentarians and increasing (CWP) Conference in Uganda, the outgoing CWP Chairperson, women’s representation across the CPA’s nine regions. Hon. Dr Dato’ Noraini Ahmad, MP (Malaysia) chaired the CWP The newly elected Chairperson of the Commonwealth Steering Committee meeting in Uganda representing the nine Women Parliamentarians (Designate), Hon. Shandana CPA Regions: Africa; Asia; Australia; British Isles and the Gulzar Khan was congratulated by the outgoing Chairperson Mediterranean; Canada; Caribbean, Americas and the Atlantic; of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians, Hon. Dr India; Pacific; and South-East Asia. Dato’ Noraini Ahmad, MP (Malaysia); the CPA Chairperson, Hon. Emilia Lifaka, MP, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of Cameroon; Rt Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, MP, Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda and former CWP Chairperson as well as all of the former CWP Chairpersons attending the business meeting. At the CWP Steering Committee meeting held immediately after the election, the Members of the Steering Committee also elected Hon. Zainab Gimba, MP (Nigeria), CWP Africa Region Chairperson as the CWP Vice- Chairperson. Under CPA election rules only female delegates to the

328 | The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing CWP AT 30 YEARS: ACHIEVEMENTS AND UNFINISHED BUSINESS: LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NEXT 30 YEARS

Sixth triennial Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Conference 23 to 24 September 2019 CWP AT 30: REFLECTIONS BY THE FOUNDER OF THE COMMONWEALTH WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS Norma Cox Astwood (Lady Blackman), OBE, former Senior Psychologist to Schools (Bermuda) and former Vice- President of the Senate, Bermuda.

At the annual Commonwealth planned to go shopping, asked one raised an objection. Rejection at that time was, as Parliamentary Conference held to participate in the discussions. My effort to get the attention now, unacceptable, but part of in Barbados in 1989, twelve I suggested to the rest of the of the Conference Chairperson the political culture of the era. It is of the four hundred delegates group that we return to the via a note dispatched to him a type of behaviour that has at its representing countries across Conference Centre on the first failed to ignite his interest in roots, ingredients that undermine the Commonwealth were women. bus leaving the hotel so that we attending to my attempt. That led efforts to establish a democracy At the end of the morning’s could continue our discussions. me to shift my efforts to the CPA and prevents Parliaments from discussions on the last day of Our discussions began with the Secretary-General by gesturing representing all the people. It the 35th Conference, a female suggestion that the eleven of us to him to open, read and act is especially an affront to the Minister from Trinidad and would each send an individual letter upon the note. That worked human rights of women seeking Tobago queried why an agenda to the then CPA Secretary-General and I made the announcement to or already working in politics. item concerning women had not at the CPA Headquarters in which which resulted in silence among The Commonwealth Women been included in the Conference we would voice our concerns. That the audience except from one Parliamentarians was the agenda. My unfamiliarity with process began, but soon changed male delegate who voiced his name chosen for the group the Trinidadian accent led me to its focus when I asked the group if objection as he exited the room. at a subsequent meeting. misinterpret what was said and they thought our purpose would be Apparently, there was significant That is the history of how to believe that the Minister asked served by sending so few letters. surprise that such an effort met the Commonwealth Women why the agenda item concerning Change of direction then focused success so quickly. The CPA Parliamentarians network of the women had been deleted. on our returning to our respective Secretary-General asked how we Commonwealth Parliamentary When the Conference broke Parliaments and inviting other had been able to form a group. Association began. for lunch, delegates travelled by women Parliamentarians to join A few weeks later the The purpose of forming bus to a nearby hotel where I the discussion and participate in CPA Secretary-General let such a group was to increase mentioned my dismay regarding the letter writing. That suggestion us know that in order for the the number of women the issue to another female was accepted. It was then decided Commonwealth Women’s Parliamentarians in Parliaments delegate who shared similar that we should choose a name for Caucus to be accepted into the across the Commonwealth; concerns. I suggested that we the Group. The Commonwealth CPA organisational structure, to increase attention to issues write to the Commonwealth Women’s Caucus was chosen as the Regional Secretariat of the facing countries because of a Parliamentary Association a temporary title. I was chosen as Caribbean, Americas and Atlantic lack of understanding about Headquarters and indicate our Coordinator for the Group and to see would have to ratify our decision how the paucity of women in objection to the deletion of the the formation formalised. That I did. as the annual conference was Parliaments presents difficulties agenda item about women from By mid-afternoon, when held in that Region. to the general population; and the plenary sessions. Overheard the Conference was winding As the then Coordinator of to show how that lack of women while standing in the queue down, I felt a need to inform all the Group, I wrote to the Regional negatively contributed to less awaiting to be served was another delegates that women delegates Secretariat. The Regional effective service to each country’s female delegate who asked to had formed a group because we Secretariat’s Secretary responded female population. It was also join the conversation. She was wished to highlight the need for on their behalf. Their answer intended to bring attention to accompanied by another female increased inclusivity of women indicated their unwillingness to issues facing women across the who, while wanting to be a part of Parliamentarians and to give ratify our request. Undaunted, Commonwealth and to implement the group, told us that she could greater attention to the fifty but not surprised, I contacted the legislation that assisted in bringing not be identified as a participant or so percent of constituents CPA Secretary-General, indicated about appropriate change. in the conversation because if she not directly represented in our the Region’s negative response, Now thirty years later, it did her tenure in Parliament in her Parliaments. A message via a and asked for the assistance of is even more apparent that home country would end. brief circulated note to the eleven the CPA Executive Committee to complaints that existed then I mentioned our concerns was passed around to indicate ratify the Commonwealth Women continue. Many of those about exclusion of agenda items that I wished to make such an Parliamentarians’ request at their complaints are exhibited to a concerning women to the other announcement and asked each next meeting. The matter was larger extent in underdeveloped female delegates and all but one to let me know if there were any taken to the next CPA Executive and developing countries. of them, who told us that she had objections to my so doing. No Committee meeting and was ratified. Examples of those conditions

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across the entire Commonwealth almost unchallenged – were able of similar political positions and violence against women. include, but are not limited to, to stall situations where women disrupting the status quo. In some parts of the world, the intimate partner violence, sexual ‘dared’ to stand their ground. Intellectual global exchanges, people are growing weary at the harassment, reduced educational The next thirty years saw calls for the wider use of the internet, lack of a prompt response from their opportunity for females and less additional methods for Parliaments continuous and growing elected representatives and are economic equality for women. to represent constituents. Some of connectivity among the peoples taking matters into their own hands Initially, greater focus was that work includes greater efforts of the world (including the when their requests are ignored placed on increasing the number to educate candidates for election Commonwealth), student or unduly delayed. My expectation of women in Parliament. There and appointment to Parliament. exchanges around the globe, and is that the next thirty years will see has been some success in that For instance, there are still business development all add to the people’s efforts to bring about regard in some countries in the Parliamentarians who see women how differently the world functions change broaden. Women both Commonwealth. Gender bias merely as ‘homemakers’ and now than it did thirty years ago. inside and outside of Parliament shown in positions of power, ‘child-bearers’ without recognising It is as if Parliament operates are more likely to agitate for change intimate partner violence, access the depth and breadth of thought- BC - before computer use was so in how women are perceived. to education, and certain types processing required to operate widespread, before cell phones, Supportive organisations such as of employment opportunities those domestic engineering skills. before crypto currency arrived. It Amnesty International, UN Women continue to plague the There is a need to bring the wisdom is a new world order which calls and the International Alliance for development, empowerment and of the Commonwealth together for changes to update out-moded Women can add to efforts to bring overall development of women so as to share the wisdom that ways of carrying out business on about change in how women are across the Commonwealth. emanates from the four corners of behalf of all of the constituents. seen and treated. The wheels of Parliament tend the Commonwealth, to dispel the A study by the Inter- Can Parliaments accept to grind slowly. Recent periods in myths that exist about each of those Parliamentary Union designed to the more modern momentum history indicate that the people corners, and to show how women show how sexism, harassment with required changes? Will are growing weary of how long function across the Commonwealth. and violence negatively affect the Commonwealth Women it takes to pass legislation and Women who are intimidated, women Parliamentarians shows Parliamentarians continue to to attend to matters associated harassed and insulted because that sexism, threats of death, have to fight to bring about with life’s basic challenges. It is a they seek to serve in politics are rape, beatings, abduction, changes that women and many whole generation ago since the actually experiencing a form harassment including unwanted men know are obviously needed? group that has come to be known of violence, a hindrance to the attention, unwelcome verbal Is there the political will to bring as the Commonwealth Women fulfillment of opportunities to contact, frightening interpersonal about change in order to lay Parliamentarians was established. further serve their countries, interaction, and humiliating sexual the foundations for functional It rose out of an era when many often to being seen as preventing remarks commonly occur against democracy? Need exists for men - especially men in areas insecure or hostile male women Parliamentarians. These those changes to occur. where male dominance succeeded candidates from the acquisition are just some of the examples of

In recognition of 30th anniversary of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians, the former, outgoing and newly-elected CWP Chairpersons from Malaysia, Uganda, Dominica, Pakistan and South Africa addressed the CWP conference.

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Sixth triennial Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Conference 23 to 24 September 2019

CWP Conference session 1 - 23 September 2019 IMPORTANCE OF MENTORING FOR NEW PARLIAMENTARIANS

Moderator: Hon. Dr The first workshop session of mechanism through which to tap doubt that they will rise to the Dato’ Noraini Ahmad, the CWP Conference focused into the enormous resources of occasion. To counter this, women on sustained mentoring as an retired women Parliamentarians should be well educated and MP (Malaysia), effective strategy for increasing or women who have gone on to should have access to research Commonwealth Women the influence of elected women a successful post-parliamentary and information, and therein lies Parliamentarians leaders and for increasing the career. the need for mentoring. likelihood for their re-election. Smt. Aparajita Sarangi, MP She emphasised three Chairperson When framed with a gender (India Union) emphasised that ways that mentoring could be equality agenda, women’s the work of Parliament is varied done in Parliaments: in-house Discussion Leaders: political mentoring programmes in nature and considerable in mentoring through seminars can be an effective strategy volume; thus, the need to mentor and workshops; political party • Hon. Smt. Aparajita for newly elected women MPs, new Parliamentarians. There mentoring; and mentoring Sarangi, MP (India particularly in the following areas: are so many expectations and through Parliament libraries Union) strengthening political skills, onerous roles and responsibilities which have great materials for enhancing cross-party networks placed on Members of Parliament. reading and learning. • Hon. Solomon of women Parliamentarians, There is therefore a need to train Hon. Solomon Lechesa Lechesa Tsenoli, strengthening links between new Parliamentarians so that Tsenoli, MP, Deputy Speaker MP, Deputy Speaker women MPs and women’s rights they can be able to get into the of the National Assembly movements, and deepening finer nuances of parliamentary (South Africa) emphasised of the National political ties across countries. practices and procedures, hone that inducting, orientating Assembly (South As part of the CWP’s their skills, maximise effectiveness and building capacity of Africa) commitment to support and emerge as Members capable Parliamentarians is a necessary women Parliamentarians of delivering to the expectations intervention if Parliament as an • Dr Roberta Blackman- in their parliamentary roles of those they represent. institution is to be effective. He Woods, MP (United and responsibilities, and the She cited a book called ‘Good noted that the impact of orienting Kingdom) greater inclusion of women to Great’ by Jim Collins, which Parliamentarians is felt not only Parliamentarians in leadership indicates that what is common to all on the jobs they have to do but • Dr Lesley Clark, CWP and decision-making positions, great companies is that there are also on the people who look Alumni Champion the CWP has highlighted the need leaders who mentor others, which up to them as role models. He and former Member to ensure that the experience is also true for the political arena. further noted that the strengths and expertise of former women She stated that examples should be cultivated in Parliamentarians of the Queensland Parliamentarians are not lost taken from Myanmar and Australia from mentorship will be reflected Parliament once Members complete their that have engaged in mentoring in in the people they represent. term in office. The CWP Alumni an organised way and where they He went on to state that Rapporteurs: David Senyonjo Initiative aims to harness the skills, have registered success. when women get involved in and Grace Gidudu (Parliament experience and knowledge of She further emphasised that politics, they are looked at with of Uganda) former women Parliamentarians mentoring is extremely important greater scrutiny than their male to support the political careers of for women Parliamentarians counterparts, thus the need for newly elected and sitting women because they face greater female Parliamentarians to be Parliamentarians in the CWP challenges than their male mentored and encouraged. He network. There is currently no counterparts and they always emphasised that the capacity

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to be effective must be learned of reports from international essential to making mentoring initiative. from those that have been institutions specifically work. Knowing that someone is The workshop opened to there before. He added that recommend mentorship always there for you no matter contributions from delegates Parliamentarians must deepen programmes as a key strategy for what is very important, and that is attending the conference. their sets of skills in order to encouraging women participation the role of the mentor. Hon. Princess Kasune, MP effectively learn the areas that in politics. She stated that a trial of the (Zambia) asked what was being they are deployed to serve. She highlighted the use of CWP Alumni Initiative was carried done by CWP beyond what is Dr Roberta Blackman- e-mentoring through social out in Australia. To date, 23 being done currently by individual Woods, MP (United Kingdom) media as one of the possible former Members of Parliament Branches/Regions. emphasised the need to ways to complement traditional have returned registration Dr Lesley Clark responded mentor women for elected mentoring. Websites, email, forms to the CPA Headquarters that the CWP Strategic Plan has offices. She stated that there Facebook and Twitter can be expressing their interest to the importance of mentoring are huge variations in women’s used to help build women’s become mentors. There is a plan and the CWP Alumni Initiative representation in politics. knowledge of political systems to roll out the initiative to other included in it. She encouraged Women’s representation in politics and develop their political skills. CPA Regions. Regional and delegates to support the activities is still low, with 12 countries (out However, mentoring through Branch Steering Committees of the initiative when they are of 53) in the Commonwealth social media is not an alternative will play a role in developing the brought up. having more than 30% of women to the more traditional face-to- CWP Alumni Initiative so that it Deputy Jessica Perchard represented while 12 countries face training, but is an important is tailored to meet the specific (Jersey) suggested that in order have less than 10%. tool that can help women learn cultural and political context and to achieve change, the goal She cited key barriers to from each other. needs of CWP Members. should be to nurture and involve women representation in CWP Alumni Champion, Dr She stated that support can the next generation in politics. politics including domestic Lesley Clark emphasised the be requested from parliamentary Attention should be shifted to responsibilities, cultural attitudes importance of the new Alumni staff, the CPA Headquarters young women and girls who are regarding the roles of women, Initiative for the Commonwealth Secretariat and CPA Regional not yet in politics but would be lack of support from family, Women Parliamentarians and Branch Secretariats. interested later. She asked if lack of confidence and lack network. She urged that it be Regional strengthening funds there are resources to support of finances. Mentorship was supported as outlined in the CWP provided to CWP Regional mentorship for such young presented as a solution to Strategic Plan 2017-19. She Steering Committees can also be women and girls. bridge those gaps as a number also stated that relationships are used to support the CWP Alumni Dr Lesley Clark responded

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that many women MPs are programmes and initiatives. recommendations were endorsed actually, out of their own initiative, Hon. Gladys Wanga, MP by delegates as follows: working with other women, (Kenya) asked how senior • The work done by especially the young women and current MPs can get involved in Parliament is not only “As part of the girls. She also cited Melbourne the CWP Alumni Initiative. She varied in nature but also University which a programme further asked what incentives are considerable in volume. CWP’s commitment called ‘Pathways to Politics’, there for MPs who are involved Therefore, all Parliaments to support women which reaches out to young as mentors? She advised that should strive for in-house women who may have political mentoring should include capacity building and Parliamentarians in ambitions. teaching MPs that they should mentoring the new their parliamentary Dr Fehmida Mirza, MNA focus on specific areas and not Parliamentarians. roles and (Pakistan) stated that mentoring be a jack of all trades. In this way, • Inducting, orienting and and coaching should go together. they will leave a lasting legacy in building the capacity of responsibilities, She gave the example of their political careers. Members of Parliament is and the greater Pakistan where they formed a Dr Lesley Clark responded a necessary intervention if women’s caucus in Parliament that this should be done mainly by we and the institutions we inclusion of women for women to share experiences women caucuses, through cross- serve in are also to become Parliamentarians and build capacity. They also party and interparty mentoring. effective. have an Institute of Parliamentary Rt Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, • Political parties and in leadership and Studies and they have created MP, Speaker of Parliament governments should decision-making a group of alumni female MPs (Uganda) suggested that the provide mentoring positions, the CWP who interact with the newer CWP Regions should keep programmes to encourage Members. All this has been databases of former MPs to women and girls to stand has highlighted helpful in mentoring women MPs rely on for mentoring. She also for elected offices including the need to ensure in Pakistan. She suggested that suggested the formation of Parliaments, and to support similar platforms should be set up a women’s caucus to handle women when successfully that the experience by CWP/CPA for mentoring and mentoring where they see elected. and expertise of capacity building. inefficiencies. She gave the • To establish an CWP former women Hon. Dennitah Ghati, MP example of the Ugandan Alumni Mentoring (Kenya) stated that politics Parliament which has a strong Trust Fund to provide Parliamentarians is tough for women but is women’s caucus, which has resources to CWP are not lost once even tougher for women with helped women MPs plan for Steering Committees to disabilities. She suggested that legislation and discuss issues assist in developing and Members complete issues concerning women leaders affecting them. implementing mentoring their term in office.” with disabilities be highlighted At the end of the programmes for sitting and incorporated in the CWP workshop discussions, four women MPs.

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Sixth triennial Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Conference 23 to 24 September 2019

CWP Conference session 2 - 23 September 2019 PROMOTING WOMEN TO LEADERSHIP POSITIONS AND SENIOR PORTFOLIOS

Moderator: Hon. This workshop session focused female President in Ethiopia. embrace Information Technology Aol Betty Ocan, MP, on the role of women in political The situation is worse at lower to address deeply entrenched leadership in the Commonwealth administration levels. She cultural and social practices for Opposition Leader and the practical strategies and implored more to be done to personal advancement, effectively (Uganda) actions that can be taken to ensure improvement in women’s prepare for leadership positions enable and support more women involvement and participation in and cultivate spaces that allow to move into positions where they leadership and decision-making. discussion and advocacy for Discussion Leaders: can influence positive change in Hon. Zainab Gimba MP women to be pro-women. • Hon. Zainab Gimba, their communities. Key amongst (Nigeria) started the discussion Advocacy efforts should however th MP (Nigeria) these were creation of legislative by recognising CWP’s 30 be contextualized according to frameworks that allow for equitable anniversary gathered under geographical location and should • Hon. Sharie de Castro, access and recruitment practices the theme: ‘CWP at 30 years: enlighten women that their fellow MHA (British Virgin of women into leadership positions Achievements and Unfinished women understand their problems Islands) and realistic sharing of experiences Business - Looking forward to the more than men. to inspire change. next 30 years’. She highlighted Other proposed actions included: • Ms Ann Jones, AM Hon. Aol Betty Ocan, MP the timeliness of the theme for i. Having transparency and (Wales) (Uganda), in her introductory taking stock of achievements and creating equal opportunity for remarks, recognised that women’s challenges and planning for the all sexes. issues are global in nature and future. She noted that although ii. Institutions should have Rapporteurs: Namukose have consequently culminated women constitute 50% of the gender units where women Esther and Kobere Betty into international instruments world’s population, they do not are free to discuss issues and Nayah (Parliament of Uganda) like the International Covenant enjoy equal rights and are not have gender mainstreaming on Civil and Political Rights, the equally involved in decision-making programs that offer skills to Convention on Elimination of all as men, which is a hindrance to prepare women to lead and be Forms of Discrimination against achieving true democracy. effective as leaders. Women. In Uganda, the legislative She however applauded iii. There is need to use and regulatory framework that the role played by the United effective advocacy and covers women’s issues includes: Nations in the documentation of mobilization methods the 1995 Constitution of the progress made by women, the that speak to issues at Republic of Uganda, the Uganda establishment of conventions that constituency level. Gender Policy (2007), the put in place minimum benchmarks iv. All efforts must be National Action Plan on Women for upholding women’s rights and documented and assessed for (1999) and the Employment Act, pushing forward policy issues that progress and challenges. 2006. promote women. v. Women should be pro- She noted the low numbers Despite these advances she women, which can be used as of women in leadership positions noted low literacy rates, financial a tool for achieving promotion, despite the existence of laws. setbacks, rigging, cultural and growth and dealing with Quoting worldwide statistics, religious practices, intimidation and intimidation amongst women. she observed that in 2016, out lack of support from fellow women Hon. Sharie de Castro, MHA of 277 Speakers of Parliaments, as some of setbacks hindering (British Virgin Islands) recognised women occupied 53 of them; women’s participation in politics. the legacy created by past women while there is only one African Women were urged to leaders that have inspired young

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leaders including herself through connections to win campaigns There are also more women in women to support each other overcoming insurmountable as the challenges impeding the prominent cabinet portfolios such to counter cyber-bullying. She challenges to make lasting impact progress of women but continued as finance, health, agriculture, and reiterated her stand to support in their societies. to advocate for their election. rural affairs. These women were any woman that comes forward She is part of a political Election of more women creates able to change how the Assembly provided it is based on capability party that recognises the roles a ripple effect thus encouraging does its work by bringing the rather than just gender. played by women and youth younger women to take up key woman’s perspective into the Hon. Zainab Gimba, MP leaders, which has enabled an positions. She advised women to economic spheres of Wales. For responded that despite women appreciation of a wide range of promote each other. instance, women were able to rally being ambitious they do not have policy issues, creation of solutions To create change, women support that would see retention safe places and often have to and has allowed Parliament to in politics were encouraged to of public bus transport as a means surmount stereotypes at political become more representative of tell their story. Through sharing to support their role of childcare party level. Out of intimidation they the society it serves. their experiences, challenges and in the finance portfolio, they find themselves speaking on only She recognised that all women and lessons, women leaders were able to influence allocation gender issues and often they will have a role to play and bring are able to portray realities of of the scarce resources. not necessarily consider the entire diverse experience to the table. getting and staying in leadership Women legislators are critical picture of what a woman leader She cited lack of money, limited positions. She noted that the in supporting key legislation, as should do. access to education and lack of major role of a woman in politics was the case for the law on fire Hon. Sharie de Castro, MHA is to encourage innovation and fighting. Through recognising the in her response urged women embrace new ideas of tackling centrality of the home in capturing leaders to inspire change rather problems. Women leaders have the family’s history, women than forcing it. Women leaders to be realistic, face the hard truth Parliamentarians supported this should be realistic and vulnerable “This workshop so as to devise new solutions. legislation and also participated in in sharing their experiences This calls for leaders to adapt, its drafting. such that their constituents can session focused on innovate, find new niches where She cautioned that Assemblies authentically relate to them. the role of women in competitive advantage has have to be intentional in promoting Hon. Aisha Adams, MP become increasingly important. women through providing (Malawi) submitting on the issue political leadership in In conclusion women leaders equitable opportunities for them of women not supporting fellow the Commonwealth were urged to have realistic to contest and allowing for fair women; she advised delegates and the practical conversations that resonate with competition. In Wales where to use men to persuade women the electorate and to leverage their measures have been put in place, to vote for fellow women. Giving strategies and actions networks as a platform to hold women have proved to be equally Malawi as an example, she noted that can be taken to conversations that result into actions good to hold elective office. the improvement in the number that will create lasting change. Ms Delyth Jewell, AM (Wales) of female Members of Parliament enable and support Ms Ann Jones, AM (Wales) asked what should be done by from 2 to 45 in the current more women to informed the CWP conference society to counter the lack of trust Parliament. Malawi also has both move into positions that Wales’ interest in pursuing and faith to support women leaders. a female Speaker and herself, as the involvement of women in Ms Ann Jones, AM in her the second Deputy Speaker. where they can politics preceded 1999 when response decried the abuse and Ms Ann Jones, AM in her influence positive the National Assembly of Wales misuse of social media and urged rejoinder noted the need for role was created. At the forefront change in their of this equality was the use communities. Key of legislative proposals that underpinned the need for equal amongst these were gender representation for elective creation of legislative offices. The Labour Party to frameworks that allow which she belongs practically promoted equal representation for equitable access in constituencies by twinning, and recruitment such that if a male candidate was nominated in one constituency, practices of women a female had to be nominated in into leadership another. This initiative changed positions and realistic the course of politics in Wales and laid the groundwork that later sharing of experiences culminated into achievement of to inspire change.” 50-50-gender balance split in National Assembly in 2003.

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MP (Malawi) asked how women leaders can navigate speaking out the truth to the powers that be without fear of being sidelined or victimised for it. She also asked whether it was possible to retrieve and review previous recommendations so as to ascertain progress made in their implementation. Hon. Aol Betty Ocan, MP (Uganda) advised that for future meetings, the CWP needs to compile and share progress on the implementation of recommendations made at today’s meeting. Rt Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, MP, Speaker of Parliament (Uganda) noted that on this occasion the host Branch for the CWP Conference had invited all past CWP Chairpersons who were all present. These were: Hon. Lindiwe Maseko, MP (South “To create change, models and people who will speak She observed that women leaders Africa) 2004-2007; Ms Kashmala up to confront issues for the should also be empowered to Tariq, MNA (Pakistan) 2007- women in politics common good. stay in these positions through 2010; Hon. Alix Boyd Knights, were encouraged Hon. Sharie de Castro, MHA the creation of a conducive MHA, Speaker of the House to tell their story. then noted that having more environment. The CWP should lead (Dominica) 2010-2013; Rt Hon. women at the table doesn’t diminish this empowerment to ensure that Rebecca Kadaga, MP, Speaker of Through sharing the need for more provided each women uphold good governance, Parliament (Uganda) 2013-2016; their experiences, plays their role and that they can human rights and create and Hon. Dr Dato’ Noraini Ahmad, synergize their efforts. opportunities for other women. MP (Malaysia) 2016-2019. challenges and Hon. Amina Mollel, MP Hon. Winnie Kiiza, MP The workshop delegates lessons, women (Tanzania) expressed concern (Uganda) advised women endorsed three recommendations over lack of representation of representatives to identify areas as follows: leaders are able to issues affecting persons with of weaknesses so that they can • Need for legislative policy portray realities of disabilities by the panelists. She address them for improvement. frameworks at national and getting and staying in asked the discussion leader from She recommended early global levels that create Wales to share experiences from identification of talent, grooming equitable access for women leadership positions... Europe on the matter. and mentorship as a means of to leadership positions, Women leaders have Ms Ann Jones, AM (Wales) developing and preparing young gender parity and remove in her response encouraged leaders. Women leaders were social-cultural impediments. to be realistic, face delegates to use her as a role encouraged to read and discover • Consider how CWP can the hard truth so as to model since, despite her disability, their areas of competence so as leverage its network by devise new solutions. she has reached the top of her to optimise their strength and allowing Members to share political career. She cited examples capabilities. their experiences and This calls for leaders where she has openly boycotted Hon. Joy Atim, MP (Uganda) expertise in an atmosphere to adapt, innovate, podiums that didn’t have a ramp emphasised the role that that catapults discussion access or spoken out on injustices affirmative action has played in into actionable outcomes. find new niches against persons with disabilities. increasing the representation of • Encourage political parties where competitive Hon. Nontembeko Nothemba women in Parliament. She made a to amend their constitution Boyce, MPL (KwaZulu-Natal) request to the CWP to train women to adopt fair recruitment advantage has noted that eight out of nine leaders and cautioned the leaders principles to enable a become increasingly provinces in South Africa have not to look down on themselves wider range of women to important.” women Speakers, in addition to but rather inspire others. put themselves forward for other national leadership positions. Hon. Nancy Gladys Tembo, elections.

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Sixth triennial Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Conference 23 to 24 September 2019

CWP Conference session 3 - 24 September 2019 EMPOWERING WOMEN AS EFFECTIVE LEGISLATORS IN THE 21ST CENTURY

Moderator: Hon. Syda The session was focused on women legislators to contribute to Dr Pasha noted that most Namirembe Bbumba, MP discussions around empowering the debate. Also, when there are Commonwealth Parliaments are women as effective legislators delegations from the Parliament dominated by male legislators, (Uganda), CWP President in the 21st century. The session of Uganda to other organisations so it is the obligation of the also suggested ideas that would or overseas, it is a must to have female legislators to break that Discussion Leaders: help women legislators from a female legislator. She has dominance, though in a way that Commonwealth countries to gone ahead to make sure that brings on board male legislators • Rt. Hon. Rebecca improve the way they legislate, the Parliament of Uganda, has for support. She said that female Kadaga, MP, Speaker how they can increase their a baby centre where the female legislators should focus on how of Parliament numbers and how to handle legislators and workers can rest to address the women’s issues issues of recantations. their babies during a parliamentary together first rather than being (Uganda) Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, MP, sitting, a policy that all government dragged into political issues. She • Hon. Dr Aisha Speaker of Parliament (Uganda) institutions have adopted and she gave advice that female legislators Ghaus Pasha, MNA noted that training, induction encouraged all the Commonwealth should use women caucuses and capacity building should be Parliaments to adopt the same. to come up with legislation that (Pakistan) enforced if the CWP is to see Hon. Dr Aisha Ghaus Pasha, push for women’s issues both in • Hon. Alice Lau Kiong female MPs retained and increased MNA (Pakistan) pointed out four Parliament and outside Parliament. Yieng, MP (Malaysia) in Parliaments. She continued that ‘M’s can be used in empowering Hon. Alice Lau Kiong Yieng, the training, induction and capacity female legislators: Mobilization MP (Malaysia) advised delegates • Ms Helen Haywood, building is continuous, because the - of fellow women to encourage to develop strategies that Deputy Chief induction that is usually conducted them join Parliament, with more encouraged male-dominated Executive, CPA UK a few months after the excitement women in Parliament their issues political parties to implement of winning an election is insufficient. are easy to address; Mentoring - programmes that advance Branch She highlighted that excessive by senior female legislators to the women’s participation in politics. training and induction makes new female legislators; Money She quoted the fulfilment of the Rapporteurs: Mr Salim female legislators have high levels - looking for enough resources to Sustainable Development Goals Katumba and Ms Esther of integrity to contribute to different fund female dominated projects; (SDGs), particularly Goal 5 of the Namukose (Parliament of issues on the floor during debate. And Men - female legislators need SDGs and the targets that depend Uganda) As a Speaker of Parliament, the support of male legislators to upon it. Goal 5 of the SDGs aims she gives lots of opportunities to achieve the above. to achieve gender equality and to empower all women and girls by 2030. There was an observation that around the world, women and girls continue to be marginalised from the political sphere due to discriminatory policies and cultural practices, which widen the absence of women in politics. According to data from UN Women, only 24.3% of all national Parliamentarians were women (as of February 2019), which shows a slow increase from 11.3% when the Beijing Platform for Action was

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adopted in 1995. She concluded professional development, which the CWP leadership to come up MP (Uganda) brought in a by noting that the world needs do not necessarily exist in individual with a programme of retention of new aspect of the CWP and all more women Parliamentarians to Parliaments. The CWP and CPA female legislators and also to look Commonwealth Legislatures to address the overlapping dynamics conferences are a safe space and at how to increase their numbers. the debate, that of looking at how of inequality and to represent it is a productive and affirming Hon. Nancy Gladys Tembo, they should involve the female the voice of women and girls, space, you cannot do everything, MP (Malawi) said that, like her youth in the leadership of their including those from indigenous though the best programmes are Malawi counterpart, she strongly respective countries. She noted communities, persons with designed by you, for you. encouraged the CWP to come up that, it would lead to institutional disabilities, as well as women living The workshop was opened with a retention programme and memory and it becomes easier for in conflicts and fragile settings. to delegates. Hon. Safia Nalule, also look at how to come up with retention since female legislators Ms Helen Haywood (Deputy MP (Uganda) noted that the capacity building programmes for are involved at youthful age. Chief Executive, CPA UK CWP should not only focus on newly elected female legislators. She challenged CPA Branch) asked female MPs to the representation of women and Hon. Shandana Gulzar Khan, Branches with no special youth take advantage of the CWP their welfare, but also consider MNA (Pakistan) asked the representation, to start thinking Conferences, through learning encouraging women with CWP leadership to come up a of Uganda as a model country from each other’s experiences disabilities to take on leadership programme where the needs of for benchmarking on how their and implement the lessons to and be fully represented. She female legislators with disabilities jurisdiction includes youth better their legislative skills. continued that while the Executive are given special training and representation in their Legislatures. She noted that the CWP is not is preparing for the annual budgets, also support legislators with One example of this is the a one-way street; it is not one female legislators should be keen disabilities to come up with their position of the national female set of Parliamentarians from to see whether checklists like independent forum. Youth Member of Parliament that one CPA Branch telling another gender compliance and checklists Dr Lisa Cameron, MP (United Uganda has introduced. In addition, what to do and how to do it. about persons with disabilities are Kingdom) added her voice to she recommended mentorship The CWP is a conversation and also being considered. other legislators for the CWP to by senior legislators to younger everybody shares, learns, reflects, Hon. Dr Esther Mcheka champion the needs of the female legislators to help them gain quick contextualises and then considers Chilenje, MP (Malawi) gave an legislators with disabilities. debating skills, which in the long how they can apply that learning to example of the just concluded Senator Salma Ataullahjan run would contribute to retention. be the best Parliamentarian they parliamentary elections in Malawi, (Canada Federal) argued that The four recommendations can be. She continued that by up where most female legislators the CWP should come up at the session were endorsed as skilling women Parliamentarians, were not returned in the elections with programme that focus on follows: there is no guarantee to long and thus the number of female defending the rights of not, only • Training, Induction and careers – sometimes politics gets legislators has reduced. She female legislators, but also other Capacity – Building for in the way. Lastly she highlighted also thanked the Speaker of women that are not in leadership. Female Legislators. This that going on overseas visits, the Parliament of Uganda for She noted that research-based will make female Members attending conferences, seminars her programme of moving with solutions should be considered, of Parliament ready for any and workshops can be seen the existing female Members of if the CWP is to see success leadership position as secondary to the core work Parliament in their constituencies in all the above suggestions by • Invest continuously and of Parliamentarians. But these to encourage their return to delegates. strategically focussing opportunities provide important Parliament. She recommended to Hon. Babirye Kityo Sarah, on mentoring women Legislators to enable them and ensure social, political, economic and legal empowerment of women and women with disabilities. • Empower women as effective Legislators including those from minority groups, and ensure political environments are free from gender-based discrimination for a democratic governance • Take opportunities to increase your knowledge and skills in the performance of your parliamentary duties, and to share your expertise with other Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians.

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Sixth triennial Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Conference 23 to 24 September 2019

CWP Conference session 4 - 24 September 2019 COMBATING BULLYING AND HARASSMENT WITHIN PARLIAMENTS

Moderator: Ms Lilian This CWP workshop session embedded and legitimated for good behaviour policies for MPs Greenwood, MP (United focused on the ways in which years and years; for example, and political parties, and each Commonwealth Parliaments can the attitude that Parliament is Member becoming a role model Kingdom) effectively combat bullying and ‘not for the faint-hearted’; ‘you so that the young people can harassment in the workplace. It knew what you were signing learn from them. Discussion Leaders: explored practical strategies that up for’; ‘if you can’t hack it, Ms Laura Ross, MLA can be implemented to prevent get out’. The behaviour if not (Saskatchewan) spoke about • Ms Sonya Kilkenny, sexual harassment and bullying adequately addressed has far the need to have all complaints MP (Victoria, with in Parliaments, which has reaching negative consequences reported and heard by having Australia) become common culture and ranging from individual to policies in place. The idea that normalised behaviour. organisational namely; the zero complaints means no • Ms Laura Ross, MLA Ms Sonya Kilkenny, MP loss of productivity, personnel harassment is a misconception. (Saskatchewan) (Victoria, Australia) started the turnover and absenteeism. For Most managers and employees • Ms Anahila discussion by highlighting that Parliaments, it results in a lack believe that if there are no there is no single definition of ability to attract more women complaints the workplace is Kanongata’a-Suisuiki, for harassment/bullying but and representatives from diverse free of bullying and harassment MP (New Zealand) it involves: imbalance and backgrounds. To deal with which is not true. The importance misuse of power; repeated and this culture and behaviour of of cultural and behavioural Rapporteurs: Mr Turyamureba unreasonable use of words or bullying and harassment, strong change, which becomes evident Medard and Ms Hope Kasedde actions that belittle, intimidate, leadership and political will is with as little as 30% women’s (Parliament of Uganda) harass, humiliate, embarrass, required. representation in Legislative demean and marginalise Parliaments can respond Assemblies, was underscored. individuals. She noted that it is by educating communities There is a need to understand a culture of behaviour that is on equal representation and boundaries even if you are greater diversity of backgrounds, colleagues and have a zero “This CWP workshop developing codes of conduct and tolerance to harassment in the explored practical strategies that can be implemented to prevent sexual harassment and bullying with in Parliaments, which has become common culture and normalised behaviour.”

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Hon. Amanda G. Mapena, Hon. Adi Litia Qionibaravi, MP (Kwa-Zulu-Natal, South MP (Fiji) highlighted the need Africa) noted that one should not for cooperation and having the have a hard skin to be able to be issues on bullying and harassment in Parliament. Harassment has included in the induction sessions always been defined to mean of all Members of Parliament. She what one can see visibly but if acknowledged the contribution one feels harassed then it exists. extended by the Parliament of The CPA Africa Region has New Zealand to the Parliament of cultural norms have made some Fiji in supporting gender issues. practices seem normal. Hon. Joy Atim Ongom, MP A delegate from Canada (Uganda) emphasised the need for said that Canada has a sexual strong guidelines of do’s and don’ts harassment and bullying policy. as there is under reporting of the All Members of Parliament and cases on sexual harassment. Legislative Assemblies. many times legislators make staff have to undergo training on Hon. Aparajita Sarangi, MP Ms Anahila Kanongata’a- the environments safe for other sexual harassment, and everyone (India Union) noted that the Suisuiki, MP (New Zealand) women but forget making signs the code of conduct. Parliament of India has good shared the experiences in New Parliament safe for legislators Sexual harassment is not part of leadership and the issues of Zealand stressing the need to themselves. She noted that it is the parliamentary privilege. The bullying and harassment are not make Parliament a safe working important to have an accreditation education curriculum has been available in India. She said that environment for all. The role system and an award given to revised to include aspects of in case a person is offended, of able leadership in breaking Parliaments that have made an consent at early stages. he/she should not report to the barriers and making sure that effort to make their Parliament Hon. Gladys Nyasuna leaders as they then know his/ harassment and buying is safe for women to work in. There Wanga, MP (Kenya) proposed her weakness. unacceptable in our Parliaments should be guidelines or checklists that there is a need to have A delegate from Eswatini was stressed; highlighting the on how the policy should look. education from a young age. noted that the bullying and compassion of the Prime Minister The draft policy should be Most Legislators hide behind harassment in Parliament is in handling complaints, setting considered and adopted by every parliamentary privileges and normally faced by the newly up a review commission into the Parliament in order to have equal there is a need to separate what elected Legislators (both men sexual harassment predicament. safeguards for women across the is criminal and what is covered and women), but mostly women. She emphasised that every Commonwealth. under the Parliament’s policies. She emphasised the need to person needs to live free from Hon. Karabo Khakhau, Hon. Andrea Khanjin, MPP have timelines for the policies to violence and the need to fight MPL (Free State, South Africa) (Ontario) noted the importance be implemented by the various until this is achieved. noted that there is need to have of early education to include Parliaments. Dr Lisa Cameron, MP (United a conversation that speaks to consent because young people At the end of the workshop Kingdom) emphasised the need Parliaments being safe place for do not know about consent. session, three recommendations to have and choose policies that the empowerment of women. These issues are not handled in were endorsed as follows: ensure all parties have a code of Women are enemies to women the current school curriculum. • CPA Branches identify conduct against harassment. which hinders the progress of Hon. Agnes Kunihira, MP and report on procedures, Hon. Anna Adeke Ebaju, young women from coming up. (Uganda) emphasised need to policies, and frameworks MP (Uganda) indicated that the Interrogate the policies that deal have polices trickle down to the within their Parliaments discussion was timely because with the dress code. society and cut across gender which promote a workplace (male and female). that is respectful and free Hon. Princess Kasune, MP from discrimination, bullying (Zambia) highlighted the need to and harassment. harness the support of women • Any country that has human at this time. Women are already rights codes should use the supporting other women in guidelines to frame their politics. anti-harassment legislations Senator Marilou McPhedran and policies (Canada Federal) noted that • Parliament must be a women in Parliament should not be safe workplace for all considered based on gender and and a model for other should be supported regardless organisations. This requires of gender identity. There are many not only words, but actions, highly capable people who do not championed by the identify as male or female. leadership.

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55th General Meeting of the Society-of-Clerks-at-the-Table (SoCATT) Kampala, Uganda 26 to 27 September 2019

COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CLERKS SHARE BEST PRACTICE AND INNOVATIONS IN PARLIAMENTS

The 55th Meeting of the Society- the Parliament of Uganda has at the district level to encourage The counsellors are outsourced. of-Clerks-at-the-Table (SoCATT) 459 Members in total; 65% women to stand as candidates, Mr Safder Hussein (Pakistan) took place in the margins of the male and 35% female. The in addition to women competing and Mr Krishna Smirivason 64th Commonwealth Parliamentary Administration of Parliament with men for constituency slots. wanted to know how the Conference (CPC) in Kampala, Act creates the Parliamentary Mr Muhammad Anwar Opposition Leader is chosen Uganda. The meeting brought Commission, which is in overall (Pakistan) asked how ex-officio and was informed that the party together Parliamentary Clerks charge of the management Members are elected and was in opposition with the greatest and parliamentary staff from of Parliament. She briefed the informed that the President can numerical strength choses Commonwealth Parliaments meeting of the functions of appoint anyone to a ministerial the Leader of the Opposition. to discuss the latest legislative Parliament, which are similar post, but that Parliament has There is a Shadow Cabinet practices and to share best practice. in most Commonwealth to vet the person through the representing all opinions of the Mrs Jane L. Kibirige, Clerk jurisdictions. She also spoke Appointments Committee. The Opposition. Each Opposition to the Parliament of Uganda about different initiatives that Committee has government, party has a whip. was elected as the Chair of the the Parliament of Uganda had opposition and independent MPs Further presentations meeting and she presented introduced for the benefit of based on their numerical strength were made during the two a paper on the parliamentary Members and parliamentary staff in the House. day meeting by a number of system and recent developments including a breast-feeding facility Ms Lydia Kandetu (Namibia) different Parliamentary Clerks on in Uganda. She outlined the for mothers, and Employee asked about the nature of subjects including parliamentary history of the Parliament of Assistance Program and an employees at the breast- procedures, privileges and Uganda and linked to the political on-site gym. feeding facility and whether the practice; tackling bullying and developments in the country; Mr Henry Njolomole (Malawi) counsellors are outsourced or not. harassment in Parliaments; the from the colonial era, military asked about the measures being She was informed the crèche is fourth Industrial Revolution and regime and movement system to taken to increase the number of fully owned and operated by the the core business of Parliament; the current multi-party system. women MPs in Uganda and was Parliamentary Commission, with minority governments and the She explained to delegates that informed of the affirmative action all its assets including the staff. challenges to parliamentary

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Standards Committee in a workshop session on the the House of Commons implications and status of the and Conduct Committee UK’s ‘Brexit’ and its affect on in the House of Lords. Commonwealth Parliaments, Anyone found guilty can be led by Mr Thomas Healey, Clerk sanctioned. (United Kingdom). • Training - to change culture Mr Andrew Young (Victoria, in relation to how MPs and Australia) raised the issue of parliamentary staff interact. the significance of the call for Mr Modibedi Phindela, documents in the UK House Secretary to the National of Commons and he was Council of Provinces (South informed that the House calls for Africa) presented a paper on ‘The government papers and where clerks; the administrative and Questions about peoples’ Fourth Industrial Revolution and there is a public inquiry there is financial autonomy of Parliament; grievances. Core Business of Parliament: a potential for some things to be the media and the use of IT He went on to submit that Would anything change?’. answerable in Parliament. amongst Members. visibility, accessibility and He informed delegates that Mr Brian Caesar (Trinidad Mr Pradeep Dubey, Principal permeability of Parliament Parliaments are inevitably and Tobago) noted that the UK Secretary, Legislative Assembly are very important to bring affected by the industrial Supreme Court had recently of Uttar Pradesh (Uttar Pradesh, Parliament nearer to the people. revolution given the media, ruled that the actions of the India) presented a paper on Ms Kate Lawrence, Joint Clerk symposia, conferences, where UK Prime Minister to prorogue parliamentary procedures, of the Journals, UK House of they are involved. Parliamentary Parliament was illegal. He privileges and practice in which Lords (United Kingdom) presented staff should be able to advise queried whether there was a he underscored the initiatives to a paper on the UK Parliament’s members in technical matters way that the UK Prime Minister bring Parliament closer to the new approach to tackling bullying not necessarily conventional could be censured as a result people. He informed delegates and harassment. She submitted matters. He suggested it should of his action. The response that some of the initiatives that that the new policy was developed be called ‘Industrial Evolution, outlined that the power to have been introduced included: without formal Parliament not Revolution’. He noted that prorogue Parliament had never • Live broadcast of Parliament procedures and includes the Parliament practice is too slow been ‘tested’ in this way before plenary proceedings. following which applies to all to embrace innovation hence and it was the first time that it • Digitisation of all parliamentary pass holders: the need to employ young and had happened in the Supreme parliamentary proceedings • New behavior code - ‘technologically savvy’ employees. Court. However, there is no legal since 1952. applying inside and outside There is a need to amend the sanction provided. • Access to the Rules of Parliament and on official Rules to provide for the use of Mr Mohammed Ali (Pakistan) Procedure by the public. duty. Everybody is supposed modern technology in transacting enquired about the process of • Establishment of the to be respected. An anti- Parliament business. For instance, moving Amendments to motions Committees, like the Petition bullying policy was also virtual sittings, e-petitions and in the UK and was informed Committee (headed by the developed. Two helplines e-submissions by the public during that there was a provision for Speaker) and Parliamentary manned by external Committee meetings. Robots could a manuscript amendment; Monitoring Committee, resource persons to report be used as procedural advisers however, the Speaker of the which follows up assurances bullies were set up. as long as they are fed with the House of Commons had made in the House. • Independence - right information and programmed the power to decide which • Parliamentary tours by the Independent investigators appropriately. amendments should be debated. public. are hired and their reports The challenge with embracing Mr Modibedi Phindela (South • Motions, Notices and are referred to the technology is limited funds, yet Africa) enquired what is the Parliaments appropriate funds fundamental reason why Britain to all government institutions. wanted to exit the EU. It was Upgrading and purchasing noted that no-one ever articulated new software to keep up with a clear vision of what leaving the developments is expensive. EU meant and that here was Another challenge is cybercrime still a difficulty in establishing because no system is immune what Britain desired by leaving from hacking. The solution to this the EU. On the determination is strong cyber security laws and of the agenda of the House of he urged participants to embrace Commons, he was informed that technology in order to save the Executive often makes it money and time. difficult for Private Members Bills The SoCATT delegates held to be considered in the House

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been developed and will be Jersey is very different to the delivered in collaboration with Westminster model to which most the School of Continuing Studies Commonwealth Parliaments at McGill University, Canada subscribe. Deputies are elected and the International School for as individuals and so there is no Government at King’s College, concept of collective responsibility, London. with Ministers arguing against Delegates at the SoCATT each other on government meeting heard from the CPA policies. The system is based on Headquarters Secretariat about consensus but in practice this is the updated CPA Recommended often difficult to achieve although Benchmarks for Democratic many politicians think it is a good Legislatures and the self- indicator of democracy. however, any Member could that have attended training assessment and technical Mr Eric Janse (Canada) table a motion on anything. It is a sessions creates a list of assistance programmes available spoke about the relationships character of the UK parliamentary shame for those who don’t to assist Parliaments. Parliaments between the federal and territorial system that the government is in and compels them to attend were encouraged to self-assess Legislatures of Canada. He control of the agenda. subsequently. against these CPA Benchmarks spoke about the concept of Delegates broke into • The importance of and it was noted that the total collective responsibility and how three smaller working groups confidentiality was number of benchmarks had it is managed by communicating and suggested a number discussed and whether increased from 87 to 132 and and explaining the position of of recommendations for harassment was worse in that many of these were on government on policy matters, Commonwealth Parliaments as Parliaments or similar sized areas that were presumed to through arguments with Ministers. follows: institutions. Going forward, be sensitive some years ago. Collective responsibility was • The Youth Parliament is a it was agreed that there The updated Benchmarks widely introduced in 2005 but cardinal medium used to should be openness in cases also assimilated many of the criticised in some Assemblies as a engage youths throughout of inappropriate behaviour. suggested Benchmarks from factor that binds people and stops the Commonwealth. • Implementation of different Regions and they were legislation linked to ‘free will’. • The accountability system modern technology in agreed to and owned by the CPA A delegate from the Scottish is used in most countries Commonwealth Parliaments membership. Parliament suggested that there where, specifically the - Parliaments should use The following early observations is institutional memory in their Public Accounts Committee technology if they hadn’t on the CPA Benchmarks Legislature, which helps with Members engage with started already in order to assessments were made: the interpretation of procedures, entities that have been advance core business. • The importance of Presiding precedents and past practices. invited to respond to queries. One of the challenges in Officers in the process. A delegate from Pakistan • A number of Parliaments implementing technology • The self-assessment must noted that the example of a Chief hold a ‘Parliament Week’ has been that different be owned by Parliament. Justice also being a Presiding where several activities Parliaments have noted that • Different entry points for Officer might not help in are held by the public at people in rural areas were self-reflection should be developing institutional memory Parliament to engage the not able to access this kind built into the process. as they would everything on their public in parliamentary of technology. • The importance of flexibility own merits as a judge. debate. The importance for • Many Parliaments have in methodology. At the conclusion of the Parliaments to reach out to started using the technology • Recognise the difficulties in meeting, Ms Lynn Gardner, the public and how to get and applying it to their rules engaging civil society SoCATT Secretary (United them involved in issues that and procedures. It was noted All Commonwealth Kingdom) outlined a number of concern them. that many Parliaments are Parliaments were encouraged to SoCATT reports and decisions, • Enforcement of decorum in trying to go paper-less. undertake the CPA Benchmarks and proposals for the agenda the House – it was noted that Parliamentary Clerks at assessment given that the CPA for the 56th SoCATT General many Speakers put errant the meeting also heard from Benchmarks form the basis of Meeting were agreed. The Clerk Members to order, however McGill University about the the CPA’s Technical Assistance of the Parliament of Uganda was in some cases, they may not International Professional Programmes to Parliaments. thanked by the delegates for the be aware of the comments Development Program for The final session of the generous hosting of the meeting. made in the House. Parliamentary Staff and its SoCATT meeting was a • Some Parliaments have impact in building capacity. A continuation of the discussion Rapporteurs: Martha Kaganzi, Gilbert full-day training sessions presentation was given about on parliamentary procedure, Ainomugisha, Ronald Bagaga, Kato and others train for just a the CPA launching a new online privilege and practice. Wilberforce, Catherine Namuddu and few hours. Publication of professional development course Mr Mark Egan (Jersey) JB Kagoro (Parliament of Uganda) a mandatory list of those for parliamentary staff that has submitted that the situation in

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64th COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY CONFERENCE Kampala, Uganda 22 to 29 September 2019

BEHIND THE SCENES: HOW MEDIA MANAGEMENT BOOSTED THE 64TH CPC IN UGANDA

When organising a successful Select the best persons for in March 2019. The Media Hon. Paul Amoru, conference, the contribution of the job Subcommittee segmented into MP is a Ugandan the media cannot be overstated. My appointment was drawn different groups charged with politician, media and The media channels information from my experience as a media branding, content development Communications to the public but also sets the host practitioner. The Speaker also and media engagement. We country’s mood and support for appointed three other Legislators developed content aligned for practitioner, public conference activities. - Hon. Sylvia Rwabwogo, MP; print, television, radio and social speaker and trailblazer. With the recently concluded Hon. Morris Kibalya, MP; and media. Answers to frequently He is the Member of 64th Commonwealth Hon. Rose Kabagenyi, MP - who asked questions with emphasis Parliament for Dokolo Parliamentary Conference have vast experience in media on the benefits of hosting this (CPC) held in Kampala, Uganda and planning to offer their important conference both to the North County in the in September 2019, the devil support. The Uganda Parliament’s Commonwealth Parliamentarians 10th Parliament of was in the details, as the saying technical staff buffered this and to Uganda were developed. Uganda. He is the goes. Preparations started team, with their rich and diverse The content was shared Vice-Chairperson of as early as September 2018 professional backgrounds in with the major media houses, when the National Organising ICT, Journalism and Research, which would then cascade it to the Parliamentary Committee (NOC) was set up. and we collaborated closely the public, over and above what Committee on Various Subcommittees were with the Uganda Parliament we had paid for. Another major Information and formed to handle the different Communications team. With a task was developing the CPC Communication aspects of the conference, among dynamic team in place, we worked conference website, which kept them the Media and Publicity out the modalities in good time to the delegates updated on the Technology. Prior to Subcommittee. ensure we executed our role. progress of the preparations, entering Parliament, he The Speaker of the Parliament the registration process, the held various roles with of Uganda appointed me to Early planning is key conference programme, the Uganda Christian head the Media Subcommittee. We worked with the National accommodation and tourist Our terms of reference were Organising Committee (NOC) attractions in the country. University, Uganda to work closely with the CPA on the budget, initial planning My Media Subcommittee was National Students Headquarters Secretariat in and on the information that they also charged with branding for the Association (UNSA), London to coordinate all media required us to disseminate to 64th CPC. With this, assistance Kumi University and the and communications activities the public. Our first meeting was to other Subcommittees was around the 64th CPC. As a first- in early October 2018, nearly a rendered to ensure there was Uganda Business and time legislator, it was a humbling year ahead of the conference. consistency in the logo, design Technical Examinations experience for me. I would like The team agreed on a two- and colours used for all the Board (UBTEB). He was to, therefore, share with you the pronged approach to our publicity conference materials. Chairperson of the behind-the-scenes planning and campaign. We identified activities efforts that enabled us carry out that could be done in-house using Empower the partners Media and Publicity the task to the best of our abilities. the available resources and also We preferred an editorial-led Subcommittee for I hope that you will find these tips mobilised partners for the part that campaign from the onset. The 64th Commonwealth and lessons useful. we could not directly engage in. media team engaged the major Parliamentary The actual work kicked off media houses, through one-on- in earnest when we launched one meetings with their editorial Conference in Uganda. the 64th CPC conference logo managers. We ensured they

344 | The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing BEHIND THE SCENES: HOW MEDIA MANAGEMENT BOOSTED THE 64TH CPC IN UGANDA

understood the significance Uganda, coupled with incidents of team at the CPA Headquarters the dissemination of content to of delivering a consistent and kidnappings were challenges in Secretariat. radio and TV stations that would deliberate message about the 64th our campaign. But with the use of We found value in working otherwise have transmitted it CPC without necessarily infringing info-graphics, live video feeds and closely with other government to the wider public in real time. on their editorial independence. chats, social media influencers departments such as the Uganda Similarly, we did not have the The Speaker of the Parliament of and key personnel, we designed Media Centre, the Office of the desired international media Uganda and the Chair of the NOC messages centred around President, the Ministry of Foreign coverage due to resources and formally launched the 64th CPC at security, tourism, investment, Affairs, the National Information procurement setbacks. a media breakfast, where editors diplomacy and other topical issues Technology Authority and the While the public’s appetite and journalists sought a deeper that would be discussed in the Uganda Police Force. They helped for the CPC was whetted by the understanding of the conference. conference. With our hashtag coordinate accreditation of the available information and the This, and other activities geared #64CPC2019 on Twitter and wider media and provided free ICT nostalgic airing of the 1967 CPC at empowering our partners and a Facebook page, we got the services to the conference. We video and reprint of the 1967 equipping them with information, conversation going beyond often shared with them platforms Uganda Argus newspaper, they set the stage for the respectful Uganda and into international as they led discussions on the were still hungry for information engagement. communities online. conference agenda. and expected to get more from the At the peak of the conference, delegates. However, it was difficult a fully-fledged media bureau was Ask for help Feedback is vital to get key personnel of the 64th set up. This facility was an imitation The Media Subcommittee received We regularly received feedback CPC to speak to the media. of a typical newsroom complete great support from the leadership through our social media The accreditation process with state-of-the-art computers, of Parliament. The Speaker of platforms, the call-ins to the talk was also a deterrent in the Internet and printers. We also Parliament and the NOC always shows and the meetings we had execution of duty. Key technical provided space for interviews and offered guidance. The Speaker with our partners. This helped us staff and journalists were lumped press conferences. This greatly hosted several press conferences stay on course and improve our as ‘support staff’ and this mired eased the operations of the media. and appeared on TV and radio campaign; it is no wonder that the their access to important meeting It is within the same facility that the frequently to speak about the #64CPC2019 adeptly trended in venues, including the opening team worked tirelessly to produce conference. Worth noting is the the top three news items both on ceremony. the daily conference newsletter, guidance and support from the the local and international scene Nonetheless, we applied our which was distributed to all CPA Headquarters Secretariat in for the duration of the conference. skills and energies to a noble duty. conference delegates throughout London, with their prior experience Meeting Ugandans in the different the 64th CPC. of previous CPCs. This leveraged Challenges faced parts of the country asking for our media bureau operations, Against all the reasons to more information on 64th CPC Have an online and offline coordination of the media and celebrate, there were some meant that the message had strategy production of the daily conference obstacles. For instance, the long reached home. Seeing delegates The Subcommittee embraced bulletin. This support was also budgetary process and cuts pouring over pages of the Daily social media in the wake of the handy in the production of the to the Subcommittee’s budget Bulletin during the conference challenges Uganda faced prior Uganda supplement edition of were a major hiccup. Some key was also gratifying. Certainly, we to the conference. The outbreak The Parliamentarian, which was activities and procurements were will not forget the tough lessons of the deadly Ebola virus in the coordinated by the office of the dropped as a result. The absence learnt, even as we revel in the DR Congo and its borders with Deputy Clerk with the editorial of a media box greatly affected successes registered.

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Commonwealth Parliamentarians discuss how new technologies can facilitate democracy at 50th CPA Africa Regional Conference in Zanzibar Commonwealth Parliamentarians from across Africa have discussed the impact that new technologies and e-platforms can have on democracy and help to increase the better functioning of Parliaments at the 50th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Africa Region Conference held in Zanzibar, Tanzania from 30 August to 5 September 2019. The CPA Africa Regional Conference was hosted by Hon. Zubeir Ali Maulid, Speaker of the Zanzibar House of Representatives and CPA Zanzibar Branch President, who welcomed Speakers, Deputy Speakers and Members of Parliament from 18 CPA Branches across the Africa continent. The CPA Africa Regional Conference was officially opened by the President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council, His Excellency Dr Ali Mohammed Shien who said: “Promoting the use and application of ICT by developing e-Parliaments in our countries is a vital step towards enhancing the three core functions of Parliaments, namely, legislation, representation as well as the power to monitor and oversee various of ‘E-Parliament: A Seamless Platform for Facilitating Democracy’. A government organs, which legislators simply call ‘oversight’.” The number of workshops were held for delegates on topics including the President went on to call for members of the Commonwealth to use of ICT in strengthening public involvement in the legislative process; invest in the promotion and use of ICT in local communities, with the use of social media in enhancing Parliamentarians’ constituency initiatives like the e-Parliament, to assist in promoting democracy. engagement; the empowerment of women in Parliament; strategies to Speeches at the opening ceremony were delivered by the enable women’s participation in decision-making; the implementation Chairperson of the CPA Africa Region, Rt Hon. Justin B. Muturi, of youth policies as a tool to combat migration; and enhancing ICT use MP, Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Kenya; in providing life-changing solutions in rural communities. the Chairperson of the CPA International Executive Committee, The CPA Africa Regional Conference included a number of Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, MP (Cameroon); the Speaker of the events and meetings including: Meetings of the CPA Africa Regional National Assembly of Tanzania, Rt Hon. Job Yustino Ndugai, MP; Executive Committee; Meetings of the Commonwealth Women and the Speaker of the East African Legislative Assembly, Rt Hon. Parliamentarians (CWP) Steering Committee; and Society-of-the- Martin K. Ngoga. Clerks-at-the-Table (SoCATT) Africa Regional Steering Committee The CPA International President Designate, Rt Hon. Rebecca meetings. During the regional conference, Hon. Zainab Gimba, Kadaga, MP, Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda also attended MP (Nigeria Federal) was elected as the new Chairperson for the the CPA Africa Regional Conference and highlighted the Uganda Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Africa Region. Parliament’s hosting of the forthcoming 64th Commonwealth The 50th CPA Africa Regional Conference was held at the Dr Parliamentary Conference in September 2019. Idris Abdulwakil Conference Hall and at the Zanzibar House of The CPA Zanzibar Branch Chairperson Simai Mohamed Said noted Representatives and was organised by the CPA Africa Regional that the CPA Africa Regional Conference was held under the theme Secretariat and CPA Zanzibar and Tanzania Branches.

CPA Benchmarks highlighted at IPU Canadian research project into financial The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) oversight and best practice in small states Recommended Benchmarks for Democratic Legislatures was highlighted at an Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) two-day workshop to include CPA in Geneva on developing indicators for democratic Parliaments and achieving the 2030 targets on Sustainable Development Goal 16. Small Branches Representatives of the SSHRC working group – including the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Headquarters Secretariat – looking at research and best practice in financial oversight in MENA and small states met at McGill University in Canada to discuss planning for the research project. The Canadian Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) funded project will benefit the CPA Small Branches network.

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41st CPA Canadian Regional Seminar in British Columbia focuses on strengthening democratic institutions and engagement

The Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, Hon. Assembly has twinning relationships with 14 overseas sub- Darryl Plecas, MLA hosted the Commonwealth Parliamentary national governments – while Hon. Marie-Claude Nichols, Association (CPA) Canadian Region 41st Regional Seminar in Member of the National Assembly of Québec, described the Victoria, British Columbia, Canada from 17 to 20 October 2019. National Assembly’s bilateral and multilateral relations. This annual event brought together 40 delegates from ten provincial Speaker Plecas shared the findings from the first year of the Assemblies and the Federal Parliament of Canada to discuss Speaker’s Forum on the Role of Members in a session on reforming ways of building public trust, enhancing citizen engagement and the culture of Parliament and how issues in the prevailing institutional enriching democratic institutions as part of the conference theme structure impact on Members’ parliamentary responsibilities. In his ‘Strengthening Democratic Institutions and Engagement’. presentation for this session, Hon. Hal Perry, MLA, Deputy Speaker The seminar opened with a warm welcome and blessing from the of the Legislative Assembly of Prince Edward Island, highlighted Lekwungen Traditional Dancers. Dr Lorna Wanosts’a7 Williams, challenges within the current political environment. Professor Emeritus at the University of Victoria and former Canada In a session on respectful workplace policies, Hon. Scott Reid, Research Chair in Indigenous Knowledge and Learning, delivered MHA, Acting Speaker of the House of Assembly of Newfoundland the keynote address on indigenous languages. The address urged and Labrador, outlined their Assembly’s experience with building a Commonwealth Parliamentarians to consider and discuss ways respectful work environment and implementing a four-day training they could support indigenous languages in their institutions and program customised for elected officials. communities. This topic was a timely subject given that the United Hon. Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin, Member of the Nova Scotia Nations proclaimed 2019, the International Year of Indigenous House of Assembly, shared that Assembly’s process to develop Languages and that governments are increasingly recognising the a complainant driven Member-to-Member sexual harassment importance of recovering and revitalizing indigenous languages code to address allegations of non-criminal sexual harassment. to reconciliation and ensuring indigenous peoples’ most basic Additional business sessions included: Strengthening human rights. The remaining sessions of the seminar provided Democratic Institutions, during which Hon. Laura Ross, MLA, Parliamentarians with the opportunity to discuss other issues Member of the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan and the fundamental to parliamentary development. CWP Canada Chair, explored topics related to improving diversity During the second business session, Interparliamentary and representation; and, Access to Information and Disclosure: Relations and Strategies: Opportunities and Best Practices, Building Parliamentary Transparency, where Senator Hon. Jim Hon. Nathan Cooper, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Munson and Hon. Chantal Soucy, MNA, Deputy Speaker of the Alberta, spoke about the significance of interparliamentary National Assembly of Québec, discussed access to information relationships and the Alberta experience – their Legislative and public disclosure as they apply to parliamentary jurisdictions.

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CPA Tasmania and Samoa Branches cement their twinning partnership with clock unveiling in new Parliament Building The CPA Tasmania Branch and Parliament of Tasmania have presented the CPA Samoa Branch and the Legislative Assembly of Samoa with a specially commissioned clock made from Huon pine to commemorate the opening of the new $25 million Maota Fono (Parliament Building) jointly funded by the Governments of Australia and Samoa earlier this year. The new clock was installed on the wall of the main chamber above the entrance into the new Maota Fono and was unveiled by the Speaker of the House of Assembly of the Parliament of Tasmania, Hon. Sue Hickey, MP and the Prime Minister of Samoa,

Hon. Tuilaepa Dr Sa’ilele Malielegaoi during a visit to Samoa in Photo credits: Vaitogi Asuisui Matafeo/Samoa. August 2019. Cabinet Ministers and Members of the Parliament of Samoa witnessed the unveiling of the clock and the Speaker of Tasmania was accompanied by the President of the Tasmania Legislative Council, Hon. Craig Farrell, MLC. The clock unveiling ceremony also included the presentation of graduation certificates to Samoan parliamentary staff who work with the Office of the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly, who have recently completed the University of Tasmania’s Parliamentary Law Practice and Procedure Graduate Certificate Course. Both the Speaker and the President of the Parliament of Above left: Samoa Prime Minister, Hon. Tuilaepa Dr Sailele Tasmania addressed Members of the Samoan Parliament, Malielegaoi presents a gift to the Speaker of the House of dignitaries, officers and staff of the Parliament and guests. Assembly of the Parliament of Tasmania, Hon. Sue Hickey MP The Speaker of the House of Assembly thanked the Legislative Assembly of Samoa for the invitation to present the clock and noted Above right: The Speaker of the House of Assembly of the that the new Maota Fono recognised and reflected the rich culture Parliament of Tasmania, Hon. Sue Hickey, MP, presents and tradition of Samoa as well as being a place for debate and law undergraduate Marcus Ofoia with his certificate. making. The President of the Legislative Council of the Parliament Above: The unveiling of the clock (on the wall above) made from of Tasmania said: “Our gift is a clock made from Huon pine and Huon pine at the Parliament of Samoa it has been designed to fit in with your new building. Huon pine is a timber that is native to our home state, Tasmania. It is one of Australia’s oldest lived species. While the clock itself will count the seconds, minutes and hours, the timber represents the relationship twinning programme to foster greater cooperation and support between our two islands. The timber is well known for its rich gold between Parliaments from the CPA Australia Region and CPA colour and strength; making it one of the most desirable furniture Pacific Region. Under this programme, the CPA Tasmania and timbers.” The President said he hoped the gift will nurture the CPA Samoa Branches committed to work actively towards relationship between the two Parliaments, allowing it to “grow and developing support between the two Parliaments including regular be as strong and long lasting as the precious natural timber that the staff exchanges and training activities that promote parliamentary clock is made of.” development. The Prime Minister of Samoa, Hon. Tuilaepa Dr. Sa’ilele The Prime Minister of Samoa also thanked the Government Malielegaoi, MP thanked the Parliament of Tasmania for the gift and of Australia for co-funding the new Parliament Building and their said the twinning relationship between the Parliaments of Samoa willingness to financially support the construction of the new office of and Tasmania commenced in 2007 and was an initiative of the Parliament. The official opening of the new Maota Fono (Parliament Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. The Prime Minister Building) at Tiafau Mulinuu was held on Thursday 14 March 2019. said: “Through this arrangement Samoa has benefited immensely The new Maota Fono symbolises Samoa’s long-standing and through several initiatives such as the reciprocal visits by Members enduring partnership with the Government of Australia. The design of Parliament of the two Parliaments. This process has also seen of the new Parliament building makes strong reference to Samoan some of those Samoa Members participate as observers as part of traditional architectural form. It reflects a typical Samoan meeting those proceedings in the chambers and the Committee work in the fale and the Chamber ceiling is inspired by Samoa’s native flower- Parliament of Tasmania.” the teuila. The new Parliament Building replaces the previous Maota In 2007, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association Fono which was a gift funded by the Government of New Zealand in Regional Secretariat established the CPA Australia-Pacific 1972 in celebration of Samoa’s ten years of independence.

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CPA New Zealand delegation focus on development and women’s representation during visits to CPA Tonga and CPA Fiji Branches A parliamentary delegation from the CPA New Zealand Branch and Parliament of New Zealand Parliament has focused on development issues and women’s representation during a visit to the Pacific Region. Led by the Speaker of the Parliament of New Zealand, Rt Hon. Trevor Mallard together with Adrian Rurawhe, MP; Hon. Tim Macindoe, MP; Jo Hayes, MP; and Harete Hipango, MP, the delegation first visited the CPA Tonga Branch and Parliament of Tonga from 28 to 29 October 2019, hosted by the Lord Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Lord Fakafanua. The New Zealand delegation visited the Legislative Assembly of Tonga, viewed the temporary compound and received a briefing on the proposed Parliament Rebuild during a visit to the old Legislative Assembly Office, Nuku’alofa which was destroyed by hurricane damage in February 2018. The delegation went on to meet with representation in Parliament and socio-economic empowerment two Tonga women Members of Parliament - Losaline Mā’asi, MP before attending a special fundraising event for the Pink Ribbon and Hon. ‘Akosita Lavulavu, MP, Minister for Infrastructure – to Breast Cancer charity organised by the Commonwealth Women discuss the challenges facing women’s political and economic Parliamentarians group in the Fiji Parliament. empowerment in small jurisdictions like Tonga. The delegation also met with New Zealanders living and The delegation also met with Youth Parliamentarians, working in Fiji at a reception hosted by the New Zealand High representatives from Girls Take Over Parliament and Tonga Commissioner to Fiji, Jonathan Curr. Youth Leaders before visiting a sports development project at The Speaker of New Zealand, Rt Hon. Trevor Mallard said the Vaini Government primary school that is supported by the “The Pacific Region is incredibly important to New Zealand. New Zealand Government and had a tour of the Tupou College Our Parliament provides practical and technical support to Technical, Vocational and Education Training Programme, Pacific Parliaments to strengthen their democracies, and this funded by the New Zealand Aid Programme. delegation has looked at where we can focus our capacity- The New Zealand delegation then travelled to the CPA Fiji building assistance. We have also gained insights into the Branch and Parliament of Fiji from 30 October to 1 November current political and economic landscape in Tonga and Fiji, 2019 and were welcomed by the Speaker of the Fiji Parliament, while making personal connections and building relationships Hon. Ratu Epeli Nailatikau before meeting a wide range of Fijian with our parliamentary colleagues.” Members of Parliament at a ‘Talanoa’ session where they discussed This is the second recent delegation visit by the CPA New the challenges and opportunities available to Parliamentarians. Zealand Branch to the Pacific Region, following a visit to Vanuatu New Zealand MPs also met with women leaders in Parliament and the Solomon Islands last year. and visited the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre to discuss women’s

CPA Benchmarks highlighted at 14th Workshop of Parliamentary Scholars and Parliamentarians The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association participated in the 14th Workshop of Parliamentary Scholars and Parliamentarians held in partnership with the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the Centre for

Legislative Studies at the University of Hull. Delegates at Photo: Amanda Riley/Wroxton Workshop the event held at Wroxton College, Oxfordshire, UK heard from CPA Consultant, Anthony Staddon about the CPA Recommended Benchmarks for Democratic Legislatures www.cpahq.org/cpahq/benchmarks.

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Focus on financial scrutiny in Commonwealth Parliaments at CAPAC regional workshop in Malaysia Commonwealth Parliamentarians from the CPA Asia and South- East Asia Regions have gathered for the second regional workshop of the Commonwealth Association of Public Accounts Committees (CAPAC) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from 1 to 3 August 2019. The three-day workshop was opened by Hon. Dato’ Mohamad Ariff bin Md Yusof, Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat at the Parliament of Malaysia and the opening keynote was given by Hon. Dato’ Dr Noraini Ahmad, MP, Chair of the Malaysia Public Accounts Committee and the outgoing Chairperson of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP). The workshop was attended by the Chairs, Members and Clerks from six Public Accounts Committees (PACs) from the regions and Members attended from Bangladesh, Hong Kong, Malaysia, the Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Delegates were brought together in order to strengthen regional cooperation and to help PACs from the two regions to become more effective in their remit The CAPAC regional workshops are funded in partnership to scrutinise the value for money of public expenditure and hold their with the Commonwealth Partnership for Democracy (CP4D) and governments to account for the delivery of public services. delivered by the CPA UK Branch. Following the previous Pacific The regional workshop focused on the work of Commonwealth Regional workshop and the Asia Regional Workshop, a further Public Accounts Committees in promoting good governance and workshop will be held in the Caribbean, Americas and Atlantic reaffirming that strong and independent Parliamentary oversight Region. A final pan-Commonwealth workshop will take place plays an important role in preserving the trust of citizens in the in London, UK in early 2020 and will be an opportunity for CPA integrity of government. This is achieved through Public Accounts Regions and individual Public Accounts Committees to report on Committees that are effective, independent and transparent. progress made in line with aims and objectives of the preceding The workshop included a keynote address via video message regional workshops. from Meg Hillier, MP, the Chair of the UK Parliament’s Public The Commonwealth Association of Public Accounts Accounts Committee and further sessions looked at Committee Committees (CAPAC) was constituted in June 2014 by the hearings and effective questioning techniques. The final day Chairs and Members of Public Accounts and equivalent financial focused on fostering delegates’ ability to communicate and Committees of Commonwealth Parliaments and is designed to collaborate with national and international partners and Members support the work of Commonwealth Public Accounts Committees heard from the Auditor-General of Malaysia, YBhg. Dato ‘Nik Azman in promoting good governance and financial scrutiny. Nik Abdul Majid about the audit process in relation to government.

Tynwald hosts inaugural CPA Crown Dependencies Network event in the Isle of Man Members of the CPA Branches and the Parliaments of Jersey, The delegates also met with Hon. Steve Rodan, MLC, President Guernsey and the Isle of Man gathered at the Legislative Buildings of Tynwald and President of the Legislative Council and Hon. Juan in Douglas, Isle of Man on 17 September 2019 for the inaugural Watterson, SHK, Speaker of the House of Keys – both Members CPA Crown Dependencies Network event. Held under the are Joint CPA Isle of Man Branch Presidents. auspices of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, the During the three-day inaugural event is part of a new network, designed to bring together programme, the delegates Parliamentarians from the Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey to share were shown around the their experiences and to discuss matters of common concern. Legislative Buildings in Five States Deputies and one officer from each of the States of Douglas and attended Jersey and Guernsey travelled to the Isle of Man for the event. From meetings with Members and Guernsey: Deputy Mark Dorey, Deputy Jennifer Merrett, Deputy officers responsible for various Barry Paint, Deputy Robert Prow, Deputy Dawn Tindall and public services on topics of Senior Deputy Greffier Mr Simon Ross; and from Jersey: Senator particular interest to them. The Sarah Ferguson, Deputy Gregory Guida, Deputy David Johnson, programme also included a Deputy Hugh Raymond, Deputy Geoffrey Southern, and Assistant plenary meeting during which Greffier Mr Tim Oldham. The Members of the Tynwald (Isle of the three delegations will Man) delegation were: Ralph Peake, MHK (Head of delegation); debate how the Legislatures of Clare Barber, MHK; Martyn Perkins, MHK; Jane Poole-Wilson, the Crown Dependencies can MLC; Chris Robertshaw, MHK; and Hon. Chris Thomas, MHK. work better together.

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Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians discuss gender equality and empowering women and girls at 12th Commonwealth Women’s Affairs Ministers Meeting in Kenya

Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians from 29 Commonwealth countries attended the 12th Commonwealth Women’s Affairs Ministers Meeting (WAMM) in Nairobi, Kenya to join forces on achieving gender equality and empowering women. The Commonwealth Women’s Affairs Ministers agreed on actions to accelerate gender equality to be presented to Commonwealth leaders when they meet in Rwanda for the Commonwealth Heads of Government

Meeting (CHOGM) 2020 next year. Photo credits: Commonwealth Secretariat. The approaches agreed by Ministers are being put forward for consideration by leaders when they meet for the CHOGM 2020. The actions can directly benefit 1.1 billion women and girls living in the Commonwealth and include: • increasing women’s participation in decision- making and leadership; • ensuring access to at least 12 years of free quality education equality goals during the decade 2020 to 2030. Included in the for girls; strategy are progressive provisions for enabling more women • putting in place and upholding comprehensive sexual and to move into leadership positions, for moving towards universal reproductive health rights for women and girls; access to minimum periods of free education and for strengthening • providing resources to enforce laws which protect women access to modern family planning. from violence in the workplace, public spaces and in their The Countess of Wessex said that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth homes; and II, Head of the Commonwealth, was ‘delighted’ that the meeting to • focusing on women and girls in national plans for addressing further women’s rights was being held and would await news of its climate change and disaster. ‘full and productive outcomes’. Describing herself as a passionate advocate for the Commonwealth, she said: “I will continue to Commonwealth Ministers agreed that implementation of these support and champion your work in tackling gender inequality actions would accelerate progress towards achieving gender across the Commonwealth. This will not only secure a more equality targets in the 53 member countries of the Commonwealth equal platform on which women and girls can build, but deliver an by the UN-agreed 2030 deadline for the 2030 Agenda for empowered future for the women of our Commonwealth family.” Sustainable Development. Commonwealth Ministers consider a summary of the progress The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Rt Hon. Patricia member countries have made on the four Commonwealth priorities Scotland, QC said: “This meeting has shown the real value of for gender equality: women in leadership, women’s economic multilateral cooperation among such a diverse family of nations as empowerment, ending violence against women and girls, and the Commonwealth. We are seeing really encouraging progress gender and climate change. The latest study shows Africa steps along the road towards achieving gender equality in our member ahead of other Regions for its proportion of elected female leaders. countries. Mobilising collective political will is key to changing the Out of 13 Commonwealth countries that have achieved 30% or pace of global efforts on gender equality and working together in more women Members of Parliament, six are in Africa. Rwanda is the Commonwealth we are able to harness the collective potential the only country to achieve gender parity with 55.7% of women of 53 member countries for what is such a dynamic driver of in both houses of Parliament. The Commonwealth average for sustainable development.” Members of Parliament who are women stands at 23% which is An all-female panel opened the WAMM in Nairobi. The still short of the global target of 30%. However, more promisingly, in Commonwealth Secretary-General was joined by Cabinet education, a girl is as likely as a boy to attend primary school. Secretaries in the Government of Kenya, Professor Margaret Kobia WAMM has been held every three years since 1985 and and Amina C. Mohamed; HRH The Countess of Wessex; and provides the opportunity for Commonwealth Ministers, senior United Nations Population Fund Executive Director, Natalia Kanem. officials, civil society, private sector and partner agencies to explore During the meeting, Ministers reaffirmed the Commonwealth and agree on workable strategies and solutions to tackle gender vision for ending inequalities, and develop the collective disparities. The next meeting will be in the Caribbean in 2022. Commonwealth strategy for moving towards achieving gender

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Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians in Africa Region encourage more women to participate in elections at workshop in Tanzania Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) from the CWP Africa Region have held a CWP Africa Region Gender Sensitization Workshop on the theme of ‘Advancing Women’s Participation in Electoral Processes’ in Arusha, Tanzania from 25 to 29 October 2019. The seminar was opened by Her Excellency Samia Suluhu Hassan, Vice-President of the United Republic of Tanzania and the seminar was addressed by the newly elected International Chairperson of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP), Hon. Shandana Gulzar Khan, MNA of the National Assembly of Pakistan, her first official visit since her election. Following the seminar, the CWP Chairperson said: “We have discussed many relevant issues to all Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians globally at this seminar including violence during elections, school curricula, civic education and many other things that touch on the theme of elections, before, during and after. It has been a pleasure for the Commonwealth Also in attendance at the seminar were: Rt Hon. Martin Women Parliamentarians to interact with the entire CWP Ngoga, MLA, Speaker of the East African Legislative Assembly; Africa Region, powerful women, women of talent, women of Rt Hon. Job Ndugai, MP, Speaker of the National Assembly immense experience. We take lessons back with us to the CPA of Tanzania; Hon. Tulia Ackson, MP, Deputy Speaker of the Headquarters to share with the other CWP Regions, where in National Assembly of Tanzania; Hon. Dr Zainab Gimba, MP, CWP unity we have to shape the future of women all over the world Africa Regional Chairperson (Nigeria); Hon. Mrisho Gambo, through the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians, through Regional Commissioner of Arusha; Mr Stephen Kagaigai, Clerk our strengths, through our integrity, through our experience. of the National Assembly of Tanzania and CPA Africa Regional Bringing more women into Parliament has been one of the most Secretary. important tasks of the CWP and we want to move a few steps forward to increase the number of women in policy making, the To view the CWP Chairperson’s reflections at the CWP Africa Region kind of influence women have in Parliament and to ensure that Gender Sensitization Workshop visit https://youtu.be/A5uWkBotf1o. whatever policies we make eventually leads to the economic For images of the event visit www.cpahq.org/cpahq/flickr. growth and empowerment of women globally.”

Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians encourage gender equity at 2nd Pacific Women in Power Forum More than 40 participants from 14 Pacific island countries and territories in the CPA Pacific Region as well as Members from Australia and Malaysia, attended the 2nd Pacific Women in Power Forum as an opportunity to share information and best practices on a range of key issues that would assist current women MPs in their leadership roles, foster international parliamentary networks and provide a mentoring and support programme. The Deputy Speaker of the New Zealand Parliament, Hon. Anne Tolley, MP in her opening remarks said: “In 1995, when the Beijing Conference was held, women only accounted for 11.3% of Parliamentarians. Today, this proportion has more than doubled, reaching 24.5%. We are moving in the right direction but, at this pace, it would take another 50 years before we reach gender parity. The good news is that a growing number of countries across different regions have shown that reaching the goal of gender parity is possible.” The four-day conference was organised by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with funding from the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) with support from the Governments of Japan and New Zealand. The conference sessions covered specific thematic areas including; empowering the Pacific Female Parliamentarian, Mastering the Skills of Effective Communication and Parliament taking action on Violence against Women and Girls. Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Australia Region Chair Michelle O’Byrne, MP (Tasmania) spoke at the forum about Parliaments as ‘safe spaces’ for women and the elimination of bullying in the workplace. Photo: UNDP/Jone Raqauqau The Forum took place in Brisbane, Australia and the CPA Branches represented included: Cook Islands, Fiji, Nauru, New Zealand, Niue, Palau, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu and Tonga.

352 | The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing CWP NEWS AND REGIONAL STRENGTHENING

CWP Jersey hosts international network of female Parliamentarians

The 6th Annual British Islands and Mediterranean Region (BIMR) Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians Conference was hosted in Jersey Channel Islands on Thursday 19 and Friday 20 September 2019. The Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) is an international network of female Parliamentarians who are Members of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. The event was held in Jersey as part of celebrations to mark the Island’s 100-year anniversary since the first women were able to vote. The overriding theme of the event was ‘The next 100 years’, looking at how female politicians can ensure • Florence Boot (b.1863 - d.1952) - one of the founders of Boots, diversity and equality in Commonwealth Parliaments. The CWP one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the UK, and one regional conference explored ways to ensure the voices of women of Jersey’s greatest businesswomen and philanthropists. are heard over the next century, especially within the political • Lilian Grandin (b.1876 - d.1924) - Jersey’s first female doctor arena. In addition, attendees had the opportunity to share their who set up a clinic and leper colony in China. experiences of being a woman in politics; and discuss specific • Elinor Glyn (b.1864 - d.1943) - a novelist who pioneered topics regarding diversity in representation, women in technology mass-market women’s erotic fiction. and how to build a sustainable political future. • Claude Cahun (b.1894 - d.1954) and Marcel Moore (b.1892 Chair of the Institute of Directors, Charlotte Valeur, was the d.1972) - political and surrealist photographers and writers. keynote speaker, discussing equality for women in positions of During the Occupation of Jersey by the Nazis, the two risked their leadership. Charlotte was appointed as Chair of the Institute of lives by distributing anti-Nazi propaganda to the German soldiers. Directors in September 2018. Originally from Copenhagen and • Caroline Trachy (b. circa 1870 - d.1952) - the first woman to speaking six languages, Charlotte is a specialist in corporate stand for election in Jersey. governance, founding and running her own advisory firm, the Deputy Jess Perchard, who is the CWP Jersey Branch Global Governance Group. She is also a keen advocate for representative, said: “I was keen for Jersey to host this year’s conference diversity in the boardroom, and is the founder of Board Apprentice during the year of our Island’s suffrage centenary celebrations. In July, a non-profit organisation which provides individuals hands-on my fellow female States Members and I pledged to keep fighting for experience at the very top of business, and has been cited in the equal rights and opportunities for all – not just women – and that is UK Government’s recent reviews on ethnic and gender diversity in exactly what this year’s conference addressed. Women have come UK boardrooms as a resource for effecting real change. a long way over the past 100 years, but they and minority groups still A play titled ‘The Unforgotten Figures’ was produced especially have a long way to go to achieve equality in the political sphere. I hope for the conference’s opening ceremony and, as a result, is due that this conference produced measurable plans and objectives so to be adapted and toured in other BIMR jurisdictions. The play that we can achieve true equality within the next century.” brought together six women from various points in Jersey’s history Attendees travelled to Jersey from across the Commonwealth who were key players in developing equality for women including: and CPA British Islands and Mediterranean Region, including as far afield as the Falkland Islands and St Helena.

3rd Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Australia Region Conference in South Australia

From 8 to 10 October 2019, the 3rd Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians Australia Region Conference was hosted by the Parliament of South Australia in Adelaide. The CWP conference is a non- partisan event for women Parliamentarians and this year was held as part of celebrations of 125 years of Women’s Suffrage in South Australia.

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COMMONWEALTH SCHOLARSHIPS: BUILDING A BETTER FUTURE FOR GENERATIONS TO COME

For seven years and counting, I scheme and hear about their directly contributing towards SDG have had the honour of serving as experience, will be acutely aware of 4.B by expanding the number a Minister in the UK Department the life-changing opportunities that of scholarships available to for Education. In that time, I have scholarship programmes can offer. developing countries, and offer championed the use of multilateral The Queen Elizabeth an innovative mechanism for fora, such as the Commonwealth, Commonwealth Scholarships supporting south-south and north- to improve education outcomes (QECS) are unique. Managed and south mobility. for children, young people, and administered by the Association The UK was proud to be one of adults on a global scale, using of Commonwealth Universities, the original contributing countries our collective influence on an the scholarships facilitate cross- to the Commonwealth Scholarship international platform. With six in ten Commonwealth mobility, from and Fellowship Plan endowment Rt Hon. Nick of our 2.4 billion Commonwealth Canada to Tanzania, Botswana fund, set up in 2009 to fund these Gibb, MP* is the citizens aged under 30 years old, to Papua New Guinea, and scholarships. Over the last ten years we simply must work together Kenya to Trinidad. No other we have marvelled at how young UK Minister of State to ensure that we provide equal international programme provides people across the Commonwealth at the Department for access to a quality education to the opportunity to study in as have utilised these study Education (Minister for all. On a daily basis, our continued many locations across the opportunities to lead the charge on School Standards). He education collaboration promotes Commonwealth. The scheme a huge range of vital global issues; understanding and cultural links is multifaceted; it supports from making technology safe and was elected as the UK amongst our vast Commonwealth sustainable development across productive, to addressing issues of Member of Parliament family, and this is an agenda that I the Commonwealth, strengthens conflict and inequality. for the constituency am proud to support. Commonwealth networks, and To date, there have been 81 of Bognor Regis and In April 2018, the UK hosted supports the development of recipients of Commonwealth the 25th Commonwealth Heads of higher education systems through Scholarships in low- and middle- Littlehampton in 1997. Government Meeting (CHOGM) the sharing of knowledge across income countries. These young He studied law at in London. It was an historic event; multiple borders. What’s more, people have studied in locations Durham University, the largest summit of its kind in our Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth as diverse as Sri Lanka and South and he was formerly a country’s history. Leaders agreed Scholarships help fulfil our global Africa, in subjects from renewable ambitious policy objectives, setting commitment to the Sustainable energy to sustainable farming. chartered accountant a clear agenda to build a future Development Goals (SDGs), We have seen first-hand the specialising in that is fairer, more prosperous, corporate taxation sustainable and secure. Member with KPMG. In his states made a landmark pledge to ensure all girls and boys across political career, he the Commonwealth have access served as Shadow to at least twelve years of quality Minister for Schools education by 2030, with the UK from 2005 until 2010, committing £212 million. One initiative announced and as Minister of at CHOGM 2018 that I am State for Schools particularly excited about, and from May 2010 which I have raised with many of until September my Commonwealth ministerial counterparts over the last 18 2012 before being months, is the Queen Elizabeth appointed to his Commonwealth Scholarship In the 60 years since its inception, 35,000 individuals have benefited present role in 2014. scheme. Anyone who has ever from Commonwealth Scholarships and gone on to transform had the chance to undertake a their communities, societies and nations. Here, a Queen Elizabeth scholarship, or even to simply Commonwealth Scholar from Ghana collects mosquito larvae from meet an alumnus of a scholarship rice fields as part of his Master’s degree at a university in Kenya. *At the time of writing this article, Rt Hon. Nick Gibb was UK Member Parliament for Bognor Regis and Littlehampton - ho wever by publication, the UK Parliament had been dissolved until General Election and therefore, there were no Members of during th e election period.

354 | The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing COMMONWEALTH SCHOLARSHIPS: BUILDING A BETTER FUTURE FOR GENERATIONS TO COME

Case Study: The Parliamentarian’s Story Hon. Josh Frydenberg, MP is the Treasurer of Australia and Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party. He was awarded a scholarship through the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission (CSC) in the UK, which manages the UK’s contribution to the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan. “My Commonwealth Scholarship provided me with a special opportunity to study and live at Oxford University. Being exposed to some of the world’s leading academics and participating in the rigorous MPhil degree in International Relations helped prepare me for the policy work that I am involved in as a Parliamentarian. The discipline required to complete the degree and the personal networks built with other students has also been important. My time at Oxford University gave me an appreciation of some of the complex debates underway in Europe and helped broaden my world view. It is with the Oxford experience now behind me that I look forward to continuing to make a positive contribution to my community on local, national and international issues.” transformational impact of the local and national communities, to effect positive change across from across the Commonwealth, scheme on the lives of individuals applying the skills and knowledge the globe and create solutions to I am aware of the support that and also, more importantly, on their gained as part of their scholarship the shared challenges we face, and there is for this scheme, and that wider communities and societies, experience. A 2014 survey of in our view, there is no better return the value of it - in development, thanks to the skills and knowledge alumni found that up to 92% on our investment than this. innovation, and soft power terms - gained. Last year, special awards of scholars return to live in the The UK Department for is recognised. But as we approach addressing specific global and region in which they grew up. Education was delighted to be CHOGM 2020 in Rwanda, I would societal issues were introduced. These returnees go on to become able to commit a further £5 million urge my fellow Commonwealth For example, for Master’s decision-makers and influencers to expand QECS, as announced Parliamentarians to speak to their degrees in Climate Resilience, in their home countries – leading by HRH The Duke of Sussex at governments, to impress upon helping share expertise between political and educational systems, CHOGM 2018 in London. With them the benefits of the QECS those countries on the front line business, and civil society. 25% of this new funding, an additional programme, and the value that of climate events in the Caribbean alumni reported having held public 150 students will be able to this programme can bring to our and Pacific, and a Global Public office in their home countries, and benefit from a Queen Elizabeth young people and our societies, at Health award hosted in Mauritius, 45% claimed they have been able Commonwealth Scholarship local, national, and Commonwealth opening up the expertise of to influence government policy in by 2025. But we must not stop levels. Your support for this a small nation to the wider their specialist areas. there. The first application round scheme will help secure a safer, Commonwealth. A new country This is why we knew that the under the newly expanded fairer, healthier, and more tolerant also joined the scheme to host – UK’s hosting of CHOGM 2018 scheme, open from December future for generations to come, Malaysia – which is proving very was an unmissable opportunity 2018 to January 2019, saw a a vision that I believe is shared popular with applicants. to further bolster QECS on an 75% increase in applications all across our Commonwealth The QECS sits as part of international stage, to reinstate compared to previous cycles. of Nations. I hope therefore, the family of Commonwealth the UK’s commitment to the There is therefore a huge demand that this scheme will continue Scholarships, which any programme and ensure that it can for these opportunities, and we to go from strength to strength Commonwealth country is able reach more of the brightest citizens Commonwealth governments and that through QECS, we can to host. Evidence has shown that across the Commonwealth, who should do all we can to ensure a together create a Commonwealth Commonwealth Scholarships may not otherwise be able to pipeline of opportunities for future community of talented individuals alumni go on to make hugely access opportunities to study generations. committed to forging a better valuable contributions to their abroad. QECS scholars are helping From speaking to colleagues future for generations to come.

Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships form part of the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship (CSFP) – a unique international programme through which Commonwealth countries offer university scholarships and fellowships to citizens of other member states. The plan, which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, was established by Commonwealth Education Ministers at their first conference in 1959. Since then, more 35,000 individuals have benefited and gone on to transform their communities, societies and nations. Through the CSFP, all Commonwealth nations can make scholarships available to other Commonwealth citizens, thereby creating unique educational opportunities and forging lasting links with other countries. Currently, Gibraltar, India, Malaysia, Malta, New Zealand, Pakistan, Singapore, and the UK all offer opportunities to study in their countries. But the scheme has immense potential for further growth. Recognising this, Ministers at the 20th Commonwealth Conference of Education Ministers in 2018 agreed to expand the Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships scheme through new commitments to the CSFP endowment fund. The Association of Commonwealth Universities, as custodians of the CSFP, are working with governments of the Commonwealth to coordinate this programme of growth, already securing commitments from Fiji and the UK. To find out more, please email the ACU via [email protected].

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THIRD READINGS

British Columbia Page 357

Australia Federal Page 360

New Zealand Page 366

India Union Page 371

UNITED KINGDOM: New UK Prime Minister With thanks to our Parliamentary Report and Third Reading contributors: Stephen Boyd (Federal attempts the prorogation of the UK Parliament Parliament of Australia); Dr Jayadev Page 363 Sahu (Parliament of India); Mr before Supreme Court ruling Ravindra Garimella (Parliament of India); Erin Virgint (Federal Parliament of Canada); Luke Harris CANADA AUSTRALIA INDIA (Parliament of New Zealand); Katey 43rd Canadian Federal General Australian Senate estimates India Parliament adopts resolution Stickle (Legislative Assembly of British Columbia); and Michael Berry Election hold the Executive to account on Jammu and Kashmir (Parliament of the United Kingdom). Page 358 Page 361 Page 368

356 | The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing CANADA

THIRD READING: BRITISH COLUMBIA

Community Safety Amendment Act, 2019 Critic for Public Safety and Solicitor General, Nations in British Columbia. He explained that Bill 13 amends the Community Safety Act to agreed that the amendments will help to currently, the Gaming Control Act requires address community safety needs in British address unlawful activities on problem the net income of B.C. Lottery Corporation to Columbia related to gang and gun violence properties but noted that further resources be paid into the consolidated revenue fund; and the opioid crisis. The amendments are are necessary for the legislation to be the proposed amendments will facilitate designed to support police officers in disrupting effective, especially in smaller communities, the payment of seven percent of the actual the supply of deadly drugs, and to increase as investigations of this type can be labour- net income to the limited partnership once support for initiatives proven to prevent and intensive. He particularly expressed concerns a long-term agreement is in place. The total reduce crime. about the role of municipalities in enforcing annual amount of the statutory entitlement During second reading debate, Hon. Mike community safety orders and about having is estimated to be $100 million per year for a Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and the director of community safety, a central period of 23 years. Solicitor General explained that the Community authority, responding to applications from Official Opposition critic for Liquor, Gaming, Safety Act allows citizens to file confidential around the province. and ICBC, John Yap, MLA agreed with the complaints with a provincial director of The Community Safety Amendment Act, need to share revenue with First Nations community safety about properties where 2019 received Third Reading on 7 October but expressed concern about the proposed specified unlawful activities impact neighbours. 2019. framework in which funds would go to the The amending legislation adds two new limited partnership, who would then take specified activities as grounds for submitting Gaming Control Amendment Act, 2019 funding applications, rather than directly to First a complaint: illegal gaming and gambling; and On 8 October 2019, Attorney-General, Hon. Nations communities. He also had questions the possession, sale and storage of property David Eby, QC, introduced Bill 36, Gaming about how this agreement would affect other obtained by crime. He further noted that the Control Amendment Act, 2019. The amending grant programs, especially Community Gaming amendments create a process for introducing Bill enables the sharing of annual provincial Grants, and about government’s consultation previous criminal convictions as evidence gaming revenue with First Nations in British with First Nations regarding this program. in applications for community safety orders. Columbia through a limited partnership A Member for the Third Party, Adam Olsen, These orders can be issued by the Supreme agreement. It also facilitates the appointment MLA expressed his support for the amending Court of British Columbia, upon application of a First Nations nominee to the B.C. Lottery legislation noting that it fulfills a commitment from the director of community safety, and Corporation’s board of directors. made in the 2019 provincial budget. He may require a person to vacate a property During second reading debate, the described the proposed legislation as providing and prohibit that person from re-entering or Attorney-General stated that the province an important funding opportunity for First reoccupying it, terminate a tenancy agreement, recently concluded an interim agreement that Nations, noting that it would allow communities or require the director to close a property for up provides two years of funding to the B.C. First to invest funding where they see fit. to 90 days. Nations Gaming Revenue Sharing Limited The Gaming Control Amendment Act, 2019 Mike Morris, MLA and Official Opposition Partnership for distribution to eligible First received Third Reading on October 24, 2019.

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43RD CANADIAN FEDERAL GENERAL ELECTION On 11 September 2019, Rt Following a 40-day election election. As a result, the Bloc with a resurgence of Bloc Hon. Justin Trudeau, MP, period, the Federal Election Québécois regains its status Québécois support. Of asked Her Excellency Rt. was held on 21 October 2019. as a recognised party in the Québec’s 78 seats, 32 are Hon. Julie Payette, Governor- House of Commons. now held by Bloc Québécois General of Canada, to 43rd General Federal The New Democratic Party Members. The Liberal Party dissolve Parliament, launching Election Results (NDP), led by Jagmeet Singh, lost five seats overall in the the 43rd federal election. Over 17 million Canadians MP won 24 seats, a decrease province but maintained the Canada’s last federal election voted, resulting in a voter turnout from the 44 seats won in 2015. highest number of seats was held in October 2015 rate of 65.95%, a decrease from The Green Party, led by overall with 35. The NDP saw During the election period, the 2015 election which saw a Elizabeth May, MP won 3 a major decrease in support a new process was used to 68.3% turnout. seats, an increase from the one in Québec, retaining only one organise the Federal Leaders’ None of the Federal seat won 2015. seat and losing 16. debates. Created in 2018, the political parties hit the 170- Former Cabinet Minister Overall, Canadians elected independent Leaders’ Debates seat threshold for a majority and Attorney-General of 90 new MPs. Furthermore, the Commission organized two government. The Liberal Party Canada, Hon. Jody Wilson- election set a record for the Leaders’ debates - one in of Canada won the most Raybould, MP won a seat as most women to be elected each official language. In the seats, with a total of 157. This an independent in Vancouver to the House of Commons. A past, Leaders’ debates were is a decrease from the 184 Granville. total of 98 women were elected organised by a consortium of seats won in 2015. As such, From a regional perspective, across all parties, an increase the main television networks. Rt Hon. Justin Trudeau, MP the Liberal Party lost support of 10 from the 2015 election. This year’s debates were will continue to serve as Prime in every part of the country, In total, women now hold 29% streamed on over a dozen Minister of Canada with a but retained enough seats of the seats in the House of online platforms and aired minority government. in eastern Canada (Ontario, Commons. A record 74 openly on major English and French The Conservative Party of Québec and the Atlantic LGBT+ candidates ran in the television networks. In addition Canada, led by Hon. Andrew provinces) to remain in election, with four being elected. to English and French, the Scheer, MP won 121 seats, government. The Conservative The Federal Cabinet will be debates were translated into an increase from the 99 seats Party made significant gains in announced on 20 November eight additional languages won in 2015. Western Canada; winning 33 or 2019. (for example, Ojibwe, Inuktitut, The Bloc Québécois, led by 34 seats in Alberta and all 14 Punjabi and Mandarin). Yves-François Blanchet, MP seats in Saskatchewan. Changes in the Senate won 32 seats, an increase from Québec also saw a major On 23 July 2019, the Prime the 10 seats won in the 2015 change in its representation, Minister, Rt Hon. Justin Trudeau, MP, announced the appointment of Hon. Tony Loffreda, on the advice of the Independent Advisory Board on Senate Appointments to fill a vacancy in Québec. Senator Loffreda is a financial expert and philanthropist. On 13 August 2019, Hon. Raynell Andreychuk retired, after serving in the Senate of Canada since 1993. On 24 August 2019, Hon. Jacques Demers retired, after serving in the Senate since 2009. On 21 October 2019, Hon. André Pratte resigned, after serving in the Senate since 2016. As of 25 October 2019, the standings in the Senate were: Independent Senators Group 57, Conservative Party 29, Liberal Party 9, non-affiliated 7 and vacant 3.

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Supreme Court Nomination and Human Rights to discuss Foreign Affairs Committee Committee on Access to On 10 July 2019, Rt Hon. Justin Justice Kasirer’s appointment. On 30 July 2019, the House Information, Privacy and Ethics Trudeau, MP announced of Commons Standing held an emergency meeting to the appointment of the Hon. Public Safety Committee Committee on Foreign Affairs vote on an opposition motion Nicholas Kasirer to the On 15 July 2019, the House of and International Development inviting the Conflict of Interest Supreme Court of Canada, on Commons Standing Committee held a rare summer meeting and Ethics Commissioner the advice of the Independent on Public Safety and National to vote on a motion moved by Mario Dion to testify about Advisory Board for Supreme Security held an emergency Leona Alleslev, MP, calling the Trudeau II Report (August Court of Canada Judicial meeting following the request on Minister of Foreign Affairs, 2019). In the report, the Appointments, to fill vacancy of four Members that the Hon. Chrystia Freeland, MP, Commissioner determined reserved for a judge from Committee be reconvened to to appear to answer questions that Rt Hon. Justin Trudeau, Québec. examine the situation relating regarding allegations that a MP contravened the Conflict On 25 July 2019, Minister of to a data breach affecting 2.9 federal official pressured two of Interest Act when Hon. Justice and Attorney-General of million clients of the Desjardins former diplomats to coordinate Jody Wilson-Raybould, MP, Canada, Hon. David Lametti, Group, a federation of credit with the government before former Minister of Justice and MP; and former Prime Minister unions. Representatives from speaking publicly about Attorney General of Canada, and current Chairperson of the the Royal Canadian Mounted Canada’s diplomatic conflict was pressured to ask federal Independent Advisory Board Police, the Department of with China. The motion was prosecutors to make a deal for Supreme Court of Canada Finance, the Canada Revenue defeated by a majority vote. in the corruption and fraud Judicial Appointments, Rt Agency, and the Desjardin case against SNC Lavalin - an Hon. Kim Campbell appeared Group were among a number Ethics Committee engineering and construction before the House of Commons of witnesses in attendance. On 21 August 2019, the firm based in Montreal. The Standing Committee on Justice House of Commons Standing motion was defeated by a Committee on Standing majority vote.

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THIRD READING: AUSTRALIA

will be established by this Bill. commented that ‘the government is not telling The consultative committee the truth when it comes to the facts about the will consist of a diverse range fund. It continues to call it the $5 billion Future of experts in fields such Drought Fund. The $5 billion won’t be available as the agriculture industry, for farmers. It’s $100 million a year, $200 drought resilience and rural million over the life of this Parliament, and the and regional development. fund doesn’t reach that $5 billion level until the The funding plan will also end of the decade.’ be informed through public The Minister for Agriculture, Senator Hon. consultation over a period of at Bridgette McKenzie noted that Senator least six weeks.’ Gallagher complains ‘about not knowing that The Shadow Minister for the Future Drought Fund Bill 2019 was going Finance, Senator Hon. Katy to be debated this week. I don’t know why Gallagher, made it clear they didn’t hear that at the Bush Summit last that Labor is not going to weekend in Dubbo. I don’t know why they stand in the way of a drought hadn’t heard. Maybe they don’t read regional Future Drought Fund Act 2019 fund although she did have newspapers. But blind Freddy knew that this The Future Drought Fund Act will establish a concerns about the process and passage of Bill was going to be debated this week. I would fund to help build drought resilience across the legislation through the parliament. Senator have thought that any political party that was Australia. The Minister for Water Resources, Gallagher commented that ‘it has long been seeking to form government at this point in Drought, Rural Finance, Natural Disaster the convention in this place that, when you our nation’s present would have a plan on and Emergency Management, Hon, David introduce a Bill into the Parliament, debate on how to deal with the drought, not just in the Littleproud, MP, said the ‘Future Drought the Bill is then adjourned and then there are present - as we are doing, and I’ll run through Fund is a long-term investment to build processes that parties go through in their own those initiatives - but onwards into the future, drought resilience, including preparedness organisations and then there are processes because this won’t be the last time our farmers, and recovery in our most drought-affected that follow in this Parliament to have a Bill dealt our communities and our nation experience communities. It will enable farmers and with appropriately. We have placed on the drought conditions. We need to have a plan to their communities to fulfil their potential as record our concerns that that process has been ensure we build resilience going forward.’ productive and profitable contributors to abused and that those conventions have been the Australian economy by improving the thrown out. The only reason for this, it seems, is Royal Commission Amendment (Private performance of the agriculture sector.’ so that the government can play some political Sessions) Act 2019 Mr Littleproud explained that the legislation game, the politics of wedge.’ The legislation will enable a Royal Commission ‘provides an initial credit of $3.9 billion. The In relation to the substance of the to hold private sessions where a regulation government intends to grow the fund until legislation, Senator Gallagher commented that is made authorising it to do so. The Assistant it reaches $5 billion, while at the same time ‘this is not a $5 billion fund going to farmers, Minister to the Prime Minister and Cabinet, drawing down $100 million per year from 1 July as the government would like the headlines Hon. Ben Morton, MP, commented that the 2020 to build drought resilience across Australia. to read. This is a fund that’s being established legislation ‘enables the private sessions regime Once established, the Future Drought Fund will from $3.9 billion, which is held in the Building in part 4 of the Royal Commissions Act 1902 provide a new secure, predictable revenue stream Australia Fund, which was a fund established to be applied to other Royal Commissions. The to build drought resilience across Australia.’ to ensure that there were proper processes private sessions regime was inserted into the The Future Drought Fund will be managed by around the allocation of infrastructure act in 2013 to support the Royal Commission the Future Fund Board of Guardians, which has funding to align with Infrastructure Australia into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual a proven track record of managing investment and to ensure, in the national interest, that Abuse. Private sessions allowed that portfolios on behalf of the government and our infrastructure funding was aligned with commission to hear from survivors and victims maximising returns over the long term. those priorities. We are concerned about the about their experience of abuse in a private and The Minister advised that ‘the government abolition of the Building Australia Fund. It was supportive setting. Participation was voluntary. will develop and publish the Drought Resilience an important microeconomic reform, in terms The commission heard over 8,000 personal Funding Plan to ensure that a coherent and of the ability to work in the national interest, stories in private sessions.’ consistent approach is undertaken when as opposed to the examples we’ve seen in Mr Morton noted that ‘the Chair of the considering and providing funding for drought- working in the National Party’s interest. Again, Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality resilience projects. The draft funding plan will we would be monitoring this drought fund for and Safety, the Hon. Richard Tracey AM, RFD, be informed by expert advice from the Future evidence of that.’ QC, and the Chair of the Royal Commission Drought Fund Consultative Committee, which Senator Gallagher, in conclusion, into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation

360 | The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing AUSTRALIA

of People with Disability, the Hon. Ronald Sackville AO, QC, have told the government that private AUSTRALIAN SENATE ESTIMATES sessions will assist in their important duties.’ Mr Morton confirmed that ‘subject to passage of this HOLD THE EXECUTIVE TO ACCOUNT Senate estimates are one of the most expenditure to inform their decisions Bill, it is the government’s intention to recommend to effective instruments of the Australian about appropriation Bills, to a wide- the Governor-General that both the aged-care Royal Parliament for scrutinising and holding Commission and the disability Royal Commission ranging examination of expenditure with the Executive to account. A former are able to use private sessions.’ an increasing focus on performance. Its Senator, John Faulkner, described the Mr Morton explained that ‘private sessions are effect is cumulative, in that an individual process as the ‘best accountability just one way that the Royal Commissions can gather question may not have any significant mechanism of any Australian Parliament’. sensitive and personal information from individuals. impact, but the sum of questions and the There are eight pairs of legislative and Their use can have implications for the constitution process as a whole, as it has developed, general-purpose Standing Committees of a Royal Commission as well as funding help to keep Executive government which are responsible for eight subject implications. For that reason, the Bill provides that accountable and place a great deal of areas ranging from community affairs private sessions are enabled through a regulation. information on the public record on which through to rural and regional affairs. That mechanism will require a discrete decision judgments may be based.’ They are described as the engines of on whether private sessions will be useful for a The Supplementary Budget the Senate’s Committee system. In particular inquiry.’ Mr Morton commented, however, Estimates conducted between 21 and addition to other activities, Legislation that ‘limitations on the use and disclosure of 25 October 2019 provided another Committees conduct the estimates information given at a private session will be retained. opportunity for Senators to scrutinise hearings. Departments and agencies, Sessions are conducted in private and are not open executive government over its by order of the Senate, are allocated to the public. Private session information can only be performance. to relevant Legislation Committees for used in a report if it’s deidentified or if the information scrutiny at estimates hearings. Budget is also given in evidence.’ Effectiveness of monetary policy estimates are held for two weeks Mr Morton commented that ‘private session The Economics Legislation Committee shortly after the Commonwealth of records are also excluded from the operation of the scrutinised Treasury officials over the Australia Budget is presented in May. Freedom of Information Act 1982 and are treated in effectiveness of monetary policy. In Supplementary budget estimates are the same way as census records under the Archives Australia, the Reserve Bank of Australia held in October and Additional Estimates Act 1983. That means that these records will not (RBA) sets the cash rate which is are held in late February or early March. become publicly available until 99 years after the currently at its lowest level ever at Ministers residing in the Senate, year the record was created. These limitations on use 0.75%. There is now an ongoing public together with senior public servants and disclosure are designed so that people are not debate about whether the RBA can use appear before the relevant Committees discouraged from sharing their personal stories.’ monetary policy any further to stimulate During debate in the Senate, the legislation was to explain expenditure proposals and Australia’s sluggish economy. This amended to ensure that only Royal Commissioners to answer questions concerning the is why some sectors are calling for should be empowered to hold private sessions. effectiveness and efficiency of various increased fiscal spending to prop up Senator Murray Watt (Labor) commented that programs. Ministers residing in the the economy, but this is counter to the House of Representatives are not called ‘the amendment would remove the ability of a government’s objective of achieving before Senate Estimates Committees. Royal Commissioner to delegate to a senior staff in 2019-20 the first budget surplus in Estimates hearings are required to member the power to receive evidence in a private 12 years. The Treasury Secretary, Dr be held in public and Legislation session. This amendment addresses a concern Steve Kennedy, claimed that monetary Committees when considering that was raised with Labor by Senator Steele-John policy remains a better response estimates are not empowered to and disability advocates in relation to the Royal than fiscal policy. Dr Kennedy stated receive confidential material unless Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and that ‘medium-term fiscal frameworks authorised by the Senate. Exploitation of People with Disability - concerns that which reflect an apparent short-term Odgers’ Australian Senate Practice we then raised with the government.’ economic weakness or unsustainably Senator Jordan Steele-John (Australian states that ‘Estimates scrutiny is an strong growth are best responded to by important part of the Senate’s calendar Greens) commented that ‘I would like to thank the monetary policy.’ He noted that caution and a key element of the Senate’s crossbench and the major parties for working with was needed in using fiscal policy noting role as a check on government. The disability organisations and the Greens to progress that ‘in periods of crisis there is a case estimates process provides the major these amendments. It is right to say that, when for further temporary fiscal actions but it opportunity for the Senate to assess the Bill in its original form was presented to the is important to consider that, separately the performance of the public service community, there were concerns about the potential from broader policy objectives, and its administration of government impacts on victims and the creation of a three-tiered temporary responses to crises can lead policy and programs. It has evolved Royal Commission process. These amendments to unintended consequences.’ from early efforts by Senators to elicit effectively address those concerns.’ Senator Jenny McAllister (Labor) basic information about government in a question to Dr Kennedy stated that

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‘you indicated that you do not opportunities to bring forward have tried to whistle-blow on the questioning section of think we are in a circumstance some of the infrastructure ATO activities and feel that today: Mr Jordan, that’s quite that warrants a temporary spending. When I was the the system has not afforded an extraordinary statement fiscal response. How should Infrastructure Secretary, I gave them adequate protection. I you’ve given today. It’s not we understand the Reserve a speech that identified some note that both employees were one I’ve heard before from a Bank governor’s calls for a of those opportunities, but I did subject to ongoing workplace senior public servant around major spending program warn that it was very difficult to performance or conduct issues individuals in this way, despite on infrastructure?’ Senator move the large projects. The that were close to finalisation the merits or otherwise of the McAllister elaborated on her large projects really need to and were likely to result in issues at hand. Did you take any question by stating ‘The Reserve be well planned and carefully their termination. This was legal advice before you put your Bank governor has repeatedly executed. But there are some well before seeking these opening statement together?’ called for a bring-forward of opportunities. I understand the whistleblower style protections, Mr Jordan responded that infrastructure programs. He Prime Minister has written to and this is in stark contrast to the ATO’s ‘General Counsel has concedes, in the same way the Premiers on these matters.’ the public portrayal that they reviewed in detail the material that you do in your statement, were terminated as a result of that I have spoken about.’ that there are some capacity Tax Commissioner makes whistleblowing.’ Senator Peter Whish- constraints in major capital ‘extraordinary’ opening Mr Jordan then named two Wilson (Australian Greens) cities, but he has strongly, statement former ATO staff, elaborated asked ‘if any Senator wants to publicly and repeatedly made The Australian Tax on their cases and sought to suspend the Committee so that the point that there are small- Commissioner, Mr Chris present a document in relation we can have a discussion about scale projects that could be Jordan, in his opening to one of the persons. The this and a timetable on this brought forward and that there statement, sought to counter Chair of Senate Economics issue?’ The Committee agreed is capacity in other capital cities misleading public commentary Legislation Committee, and unusually suspended the and regions around the country.’ about the Australian Taxation Senator Slade Brockman hearing to deliberate in private. Dr Kennedy stated that Office’s (ATO) attitude (Liberal) stated that in relation When the Committee ‘I might try and distinguish towards whistleblowers. In to a separate inquiry into the resumed, the Chair stated between a couple of activities. his statement he referred to performance of the Inspector- that ‘Commissioner Jordan, When people think about two former ATO employees. General of Taxation ‘the I think you’d agree that was a short-term, temporary Mr Jordan stated that ‘I will Committee has been very probably a slightly unusual response, they think about a clarify issues regarding our cautious not to reveal people’s opening statement from a Tax significant action - the sort treatment of whistleblowers, private information publicly. Commissioner, but we certainly of action that you might have and, contrary to what has been We’ve taken the vast majority appreciate why you felt the need seen, for example, in the written by some commentators, of information in confidence. to give it. The Committee has response to the global financial the ATO takes whistleblowing My preference would be to resolved at this stage to ask you crisis - where a very short, very seriously, and we actively consider this document more to make this a submission to the large, targeted, temporary engage disclosures - so we closely before we make a final IGT inquiry, so we won’t publicly response looks to bring forward actually encourage disclosures decision on receiving it.’ receive it at this point. The activity in some way. I noted in - where people feel they Senator Rex Patrick Committee also resolved, on a my remarks that there are some are warranted. There are (Centre Alliance) drew attention request from Senator Patrick - many avenues to the need for Legislation and I know this is very unusual available to Committees performing their - to make a few remarks about staff to make a estimates function to take your opening statement and public interest evidence in public, Senator then move on to questions.’ disclosure, or Patrick recommended to Mr Senator Patrick then stated PID, and we have Jordan that ‘rather than table that ‘it was an unusual opening a culture that this, you provide it to the inquiry statement, and I would like encourages and into the performance of the to respond just to put on supports it.’ Inspector-General, and then we the record that you have a Mr Jordan then can properly consider exactly perspective. You’re entitled stated that ‘we the information in here and we to that perspective and to lay rarely ever receive can work with it and we can work out the facts, but so too are complaints about out what the committee would the people involved. They may our handling of consider to be confidential. We have a different perspective, as PIDs, yet currently can’t do that for estimates. We’re other people may have. Indeed, we have two not in a position to do that.’ that’s why it’s probably better to public cases Senator Katy Gallagher shift this out of estimates and where former (Labor) then questioned Mr back into the Committee, where employees Jordan about his conduct we’re dealing with those sorts believe they stating ‘just before we get to of matters relatively exclusively.’

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NEW UK PRIME MINISTER ATTEMPTS THE PROROGATION OF THE UK PARLIAMENT BEFORE SUPREME COURT RULING New UK Prime Minister sitting weeks for Parliament an emergency debate under voted against the Government On Tuesday 23 July 2019, the before ‘exit day’; but three Standing Order No. 24 in the and subsequently had the party Conservative Party announced of those weeks covered the House of Commons. This whip withdrawn. the result of its leadership party conferences, when application was granted by the As a result of the motion election. Rt Hon. Boris Parliament does not normally Speaker and led to Mr Letwin passing, the following day, Rt Johnson, MP won 92,153 sit. The Leader of the House tabling a business motion to Hon. Hilary Benn, MP (Lab) votes from Conservative Party of Commons, Rt Hon. Jacob provide time for a new Bill to be introduced the European Union members, beating his rival, Rt Rees-Mogg, MP (Con), told introduced and pass through (Withdrawal) (No. 6) Bill. The Hon. Jeremy Hunt, MP, who the House of Commons: the House of Commons and main provision of the Bill was won 46,656 votes. “Prorogation is a routine start for the Commons to consider to require the Prime Minister The following day, Rt Hon. for a new Session, and we are any amendments to the Bill to request an extension to Theresa May, MP tendered losing a similar number of days by the House of Lords before the negotiating period no her resignation to Her Majesty to the number we would lose in prorogation. The motion tabled later than 19 October 2019, Queen Elizabeth II and Boris a normal Prorogation.” by Mr Letwin received support unless the House of Commons Johnson was appointed as On Tuesday 3 September from the opposition parties has passed a motion either Prime Minister by The Queen 2019, Rt Hon. Sir Oliver and was passed by 328 votes to approve the withdrawal later that day. Letwin, MP (Con) applied for to 301. 21 Conservative MPs agreement or to leave the EU

Order for the prorogation of Parliament and the European Union (Withdrawal) (No. 6) Bill On 28 August 2019, six days before Parliament was due to return from its summer recess, the UK Prime Minister, Rt Hon. Boris Johnson, MP announced that he was to advise The Queen to prorogue Parliament. The prorogation was to be effective from between 9 and 12 September until the day of State Opening, planned for 14 October (further information on prorogation can be found in the UK parliamentary report in The Parliamentarian 2019 Issue 3). The motivation for the prorogation was described in the House of Commons on 3 September 2019 by the Leader of the Opposition, Rt Hon. Jeremy Corbyn, MP (Lab), as the Government “trying to shut down debate, shut down democracy and lead us into what I believe would be the problems of a no-deal Brexit.” The United Kingdom was due to leave the European Union on 31 October 2019 and so prorogation of this length of time would exclude five out of a possible seven and a half

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rather unusual and controversial prorogation.” In speaking for her amendment, Baroness Smith argued: “we are, and were, aware of what would be a deliberate attempt to filibuster the Bill.” A total of 102 amendments were tabled to the motion. Rt Hon. Lord Forsyth of Drumlean (Con), who opposed the motion and tabled a number of amendments to it, said during the debate: “We are making a dangerous and unprecedented assault on the part of this House, to quote the former Lord Chancellor [Rt Hon. Lord Falconer of Thornton], and this should not be nodded through as part of a business motion… The implications are enormous.” As a result of the nature of the debate and the number of amendments, the House of Lords set a new record for the most divisions in a sitting day – 17. This was in part the result of closure motions being moved to close the debate on, and then dispose of, amendments to the motion. After nine and a half hours of debate on the motion, Lord Ashton of Hyde, Government Chief Whip, told the House at 1.10am: “we have agreed that consideration of the current Business of the House Motion will be adjourned and a new Motion tabled tomorrow to allow the Bill to complete all stages in this House by 5 pm on Friday 6 September…It is the Government’s intention that the Bill be ready to be presented for Royal Assent.” The House was adjourned until later on Thursday 5 September, and a new Business of the House without an agreement. This The House of Lords does Report stage, Third Reading and motion was tabled and agreed request was to be made by a not guillotine debating time Passing of the Bill be brought to to without division. The Bill letter to the President of the for legislation. However, on a conclusion by 5pm on Friday completed its stages on Friday European Council, the specific Wednesday 4 September 2019, 6 September. Baroness Smith 6 September and passed wording of which the Bill also the Leader of the Opposition told the House: “there is a fixed without amendment. It received provided for. The Bill passed in the House of Lords, Rt Hon. end time not of our choosing. Royal Assent on Monday 9 through all of its stages in the Baroness Smith of Basildon Your Lordships’ House has no September before Parliament Commons on Wednesday and (Lab), tabled a Business of the say or impact on that fixed end was prorogued to become the was sent to the House of Lords. House motion which would time, which has been decided European Union (Withdrawal) ensure that Committee stage, by the Prime Minister through a (No. 2) Act, 2019.

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UK Supreme Court Ruling House of Commons regarding to implement the withdrawal in favour of an early general on the Prorogation of the the Falklands conflict. As a agreement. The WAB election, Rt Hon. Jeremy UK Parliament result of the European Union passed its second reading Corbyn, MP (Lab) told the The UK Supreme Court held a (Withdrawal) (No. 2) Act 2019, on 22 October 2019 by 329 House on 9 September three-day hearing to consider this was the day on which the votes to 299. However, the 2019 that: “until the Act (the two legal challenges to the UK Prime Minister was required programme motion for the Bill, European Union (Withdrawal) Government regarding whether to request an extension of which sought to conclude all (No. 2) Act) has been complied the advice given by the Prime the negotiating period with subsequent Commons stages with and no deal has been Minister, Rt Hon. Boris the European Union. The within three sittings days, was taken off the table, we will not Johnson, MP to The Queen Secretary of State for Exiting defeated by 322 votes to 308. vote to support the Dissolution that the UK Parliament should the European Union, Rt Hon. This was the Prime Minister’s of this House and a general be prorogued was lawful [R Stephen Barclay, MP (Con), tenth defeat since taking election.” (on the application of Miller) moved a motion to approve the office. The Prime Minister The UK Government (Appellant) v The Prime Minister withdrawal agreement recently told the House of Commons: tabled a further motion for (Respondent) and Cherry renegotiated by Prime Minister “I will speak to EU member an early general election on and others (Respondents) v Johnson’s Government. states about their intentions 28 October 2019 under the Advocate General for Scotland Rt Hon. Sir Oliver Letwin, [regarding an extension to the FTPA after the extension to (Appellant) (Scotland)]. On MP (Con) tabled an amendment negotiating period] and, until the negotiating period had the morning of Tuesday to the motion which said: “this they have reached a decision, been granted by the European 24 September 2019, Rt House has considered the we will pause this legislation.” Union, but it again failed to Hon. Baroness Hale of matter but withholds approval meet the required two-thirds Richmond, President of the unless and until implementing Motions for a General majority (299 votes to 70). UK Supreme Court, gave the legislation is passed.” This Election under the Fixed- On 29 October 2019, the UK following judgement: “the amendment was selected by term Parliaments Act 2011 Government tabled the Early Prime Minister’s advice to Her the Speaker and was passed by On 4 and 9 September 2019, Parliamentary General Election Majesty was unlawful, void and 322 votes to 306. the Government tabled Bill to provide for an election of no effect. This means that As a result of this motions under the Fixed- to be held on 12 December the Order in Council to which amendment, the motion Term Parliaments Act, 2011 2019. It passed all stages in the it led was also unlawful, void required under the European (the “FTPA”) mandating an House of Commons on that and of no effect and should Union (Withdrawal) (No. 2) early general election. The Act day and all stages in the House be quashed. This means that Act was not passed and was passed by the Coalition of Lords the following day when the Royal Commissioners therefore the Prime Minister Government led by then without amendment. The UK walked into the House of Lords was required under the Act to Prime Minister, Rt Hon. David Parliament was dissolved on it was as if they walked in with request an extension for the Cameron, MP as part of the Wednesday 6 November 2019. a blank sheet of paper. The negotiating period. coalition agreement with the prorogation was also void and Following the Government Liberal Democrats. One of the Election for new Speaker of of no effect. Parliament has defeat, the Prime Minister Act’s significant provisions is the House of Commons not been prorogued. This is the told the House of Commons: that two-thirds of MPs must Rt Hon. John Bercow MP, unanimous judgment of all 11 “further delay would be bad vote in favour of a motion for who had been Speaker of Justices.” for this country, bad for our an early general election to be the House of Commons Parliament returned the European Union, and bad held. An early general election since 2009, told the House of following day, Wednesday for democracy.” The Prime is an election held before the Commons on 9 September 25 September 2019 and the Minister later that evening sent next scheduled polling day 2019 that he would stand 2017-19 session of Parliament the letter required under the under the Act (which is the first down by 31 October 2019. The resumed. European Union (Withdrawal) Thursday in May in the fifth election for the next Speaker The UK Parliament was later (No. 2) Act although it was calendar year following that in took place on 4 November prorogued for six days, from unsigned, along with another which the polling day for the 2019, the second time the Tuesday 8 October to Monday signed letter arguing against an previous parliamentary general Speaker of the House of 14 October 2019. extension. On 28 October 2019, election fell). This was the Commons has been elected by the President of the European motion, tabled by then Prime its Members by secret ballot. Proceedings on the Council, Donald Tusk, Minister, Rt Hon. Theresa May, Seven candidates stood for European Union Withdrawal confirmed that the negotiation MP and passed in April 2017 to election. Rt Hon. Sir Lindsay (Agreement) Bill period would be extended to hold a general election in June Hoyle MP (Lab), Chairman of The UK Parliament sat on 31 January 2020. of that year. Ways and Means and Deputy Saturday 19 October 2019, the The UK Government On both occasions in Speaker of the House of first Saturday sitting since 3 introduced the European Union September, the motion did not Commons, was elected as April 1982, when the UK Prime (Withdrawal Agreement) Bill reach the majority required Speaker after four rounds Minister, Rt Hon. Margaret (“the WAB”) to the House of under the Act. Explaining why using an exhaustive ballot Thatcher, MP addressed the Commons on 21 October 2019, the Opposition did not vote voting system.

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communities that is caused by synthetic drugs.” However, Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand MP Ms Chlöe Swarbrick disagreed: “In fact, if we are to look at direct examples where we have done exactly this approach 16 years ago with methamphetamine, what we have seen is simply an increase in harm, an increase in use, and an increase in prosecutions, meaning an increase in the number of people in our prison cells.” The Bill was voted down, 64 votes to 56.

Insolvency Practitioners Regulation Bill & Insolvency Practitioners Regulation (Amendments) Bill The Insolvency Practitioners Regulation Bill and Insolvency Practitioners Regulation (Amendments) Bill passed their Third Readings in June 2019 after a lengthy process in the Misuse of Drugs Amendment Bill and to be a health benefit, then discretion will be House. The Bills were originally introduced Psychoactive Substances (Increasing exercised, and we were told, and we believe in 2010 as the Insolvency Practitioners Bill. Penalty for Supply and Distribution) and we understand, that there will always be a As introduced, the Bill proposed a negative Amendment Bill health benefit, therefore discretion is likely to be licensing system that would give the Registrar The Misuse of Drugs Amendment Bill, a always applied. That’s sort of, fundamentally, the of Companies the power to prohibit certain Government Bill, passed its Third Reading in the issue that we’re struggling with in how we, quite individuals from providing insolvency services, New Zealand Parliament on 7 August 2019. The reasonably, join the dots with this being default or to place them under supervision, for up to Minister of Health, Hon. Dr David Clark, MP decriminalisation.” five years. The Select Committee considering (Labour) explained the intent of the Bill: “It will Mr Darroch Ball, MP (NZ First) disagreed: the Bill recommended replacing this system classify AMB-FUBINACA and 5F-ADB as class “I just want to touch on what Michael with a registration framework, with associated A drugs. It will reaffirm the existing police discretion Woodhouse said again today, and just what offences and penalties, and this was adopted and specify that when considering whether a the previous Member, Dr Shane Reti, was by the House at Second Reading. prosecution is required in the public interest for talking about. He said that he was concerned The Bill was discharged in 2018 and drug possession and use, consideration should be that certain groups in our society, and Māori recommitted to the Select Committee for given to whether a therapeutic approach would in particular, were going to be affected by the consideration of further amendments proposed be more beneficial. This discretion exists for all discretion that was being used under this bill by in a Government Supplementary Order Paper drug offences. It will enable temporary drug class police. How can that be if we’re taking all the (SOP). These amendments sought to change orders to be issued to better control emerging and discretion away from the police - according to the registration framework agreed at second potentially harmful substances.” National - and decriminalising the possession of reading to a co-licensing framework, requiring There was cross-party support for aspects drugs? Because there would be no discretion insolvency practitioners to be licensed by of the Bill. Opposition spokesperson for health, being used if it was all decriminalised. So which an accredited body under a new Insolvency Hon. Michael Woodhouse, MP (National) one is it, Dr Reti? Is there a concern with the Practitioners Regulation Act. Most of the commented: “We now have punishments of up discretion that they already use, or is it going to recommendations in the SOP were adopted by to 20 years in jail for offences for supply of these be decriminalisation of all the drugs and that no the select committee and the Bill was divided to synthetic drugs that have caused a scourge, police would have to use discretion?” reflect amendments made since its introduction. particularly in vulnerable communities, and On 22 May 2019, some two months Hon. Dr Megan Woods (Labour) moved death on, I think, about 80 occasions in the last prior to the passing of the Misuse of Drugs the Bills’ Third Readings on behalf of the couple of years. So we support that; we think Amendment Bill, the New Zealand Parliament Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. that is a very good initiative. The temporary drug also considered, and voted down at its Third Woods told the House that a similar licensing orders also we will support …” Reading, a Member’s Bill in the name of Mr regime is already used to regulate the auditing However, concern was raised that the Bill Simeon Brown, MP (National) to increase profession and that replicating this for might constitute a ‘de facto decriminalisation’ the penalties for the supply and distribution of insolvency practitioners was “necessary … to of certain prohibited substances. Dr Shane psychoactive substances. Mr Brown explained ensure that all insolvency practitioners meet the Reti, MP (National) said: “We’ve expressed to the House that the Psychoactive Substances basic standards of honesty and competence our concerns with … the decision tree that (Increasing Penalty for Supply and Distribution) that the public is entitled to expect of them.” gives police discretion. For us, it really is that it Amendment Bill would “address the growing The Opposition National Party, which seems like that discretion is that if there’s likely danger and considerable concern in our originally introduced the Bill, supported the

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amendments made at the Select Committee and voted with the Government on the Third THIRD READING: NEW ZEALAND Readings. Commerce and consumer affairs spokesperson, Mr Brett Hudson, MP The Bill received unanimous support across the Act could be further examined under a broader (National) stated that businesses “deserve House. review of the Act, which is currently under confidence that, should the business they’re More than 168,000 New Zealanders have way. The Minister also noted that “there is a transacting with go into financial difficulties, a print disability, but Minister of Commerce and requirement in the Bill for authorised entities to their interests as creditors will be served by the Consumer Affairs, Hon. Kris Faafoi noted, take all reasonable steps to notify the owner of a practitioners that are dealing with that issue or “It is estimated that around 10% of all written copyright work of an intention to make or import insolvency. This legislation goes a long way, I materials published worldwide are published an accessible format, and the Select Committee believe, to improving that confidence.” in formats that are accessible to people with also said that this should incentivise cooperation The Green Party used the Third Reading print disability, so this lack of access - with between authorised entities and copyright debate to highlight public submissions on the 90% that are not - is a barrier to participation in owners themselves.” way the licensing regime would be funded. public life. It restricts employment, education, National MP and Chair of the Select As passed, the Bill empowers the Registrar and, of course, recreational opportunities for a Committee, Mr Jonathan Young said: “We did of Companies to levy companies to offset the significant number of New Zealanders.” have considerable discussion around this, trying costs of the licensing regime, rather than the Members across the House spoke of to find the balance between the interests of costs being borne by practitioners. Mr Gareth submissions from print-disabled people in their those copyright holders and those people who Hughes, MP (Green) stated “We didn’t hear electorates who have been disadvantaged need to access in a timely fashion those written a great number of submissions in the select by the current legislation, particularly those works, especially when there’s time constraints committee, but we did hear from the small completing university studies, who receive their around, perhaps, university studies,” and, community of liquidators, particularly on the study material later than other students, and “on the balance, we considered that a formal point of cost … [The licensing regime] will be sometimes even after their course has finished. requirement for a commercial availability test funded out of the Companies Office. This is Minister for Children and New Zealand First would disadvantage print-disabled people, so important so that this burden isn’t placed on a MP, Hon. Tracey Martin also discussed the we made that decision.” small number of shoulders.” impact that the Bill would have also on vision- “I think that’s a wonderful thing that we can Mr Fletcher Tabuteau, MP (NZ First) stated impaired children in New Zealand: “I ask people do for New Zealand consumers,” commented that the unusual history of the Bill, where it was to think for a moment of five-year-olds, six-year- Mr Gareth Hughes. He went on to say, “This recommitted to the Select Committee after a olds, and seven-year-olds also wanting to have is a great day forward for sensible, modern Second Reading, was necessary to address this wide diversity of materials that they can read copyright reform. It’s going to really help those problems in the original registration system. He on their own in a format that they’ll be able to use consumers, but, most importantly, it’s also argued that the proposed registration framework for the rest of their lives.” going to encourage those producers, because, would not do enough to guarantee practitioners During the Economic Development, Science ultimately, in this digital age we want more and were of good character and appropriately and Innovation Committee’s consideration more producers.” qualified to perform insolvency services: “We of the Bill, Green MP Mr Gareth Hughes The Bill received Royal assent on 12 August weren’t addressing the issue of competency and suggested removing the commercial availability 2019. integrity in the first instance, and so, because the test from the legislation and from the Copyright disqualification criteria were quite minimal, there Act. The commercial availability was no conversation about skill and experience test, Minister Faafoi explained, and good character.” He argued that the Bills “would require authorised entities to in their final form support “the introduction make reasonable efforts to obtain a of a robust new regime for the licensing of commercially available accessible practitioners, providing effective ways for holding format copy of a work within a them to account.” reasonable time and at an ordinary commercial price before making an Copyright (Marrakesh Treaty accessible format copy of that work.” Implementation) Amendment Bill The Minister noted that some The Copyright (Marrakesh Treaty stakeholders were concerned that Implementation) Amendment Bill passed its removing the test would “reduce Third Reading in the New Zealand Parliament sales of accessible format copies on 7 August 2019. The Bill aims to provide and therefore reduce the incentive to print-disabled people with better access to print create accessible format copies.” He publications through an exception to copyright indicated that there was no evidence law, as required under the Marrakesh Treaty, of this occurring in other jurisdictions which will allow authorised entities to make or to date, but that these and other “valid import accessible format copies of publications. wider concerns” around the Copyright

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INDIA PARLIAMENT ADOPTS RESOLUTION TO APPLY ALL CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR Both the Houses of Parliament had its own constitution, Moving the Resolution country. Shri Satish Chandra of India, during their Monsoon separate flag and freedom and motion for consideration Misra (BSP) said minorities, Session in August 2019, to make laws. Subjects like of the Jammu and Kashmir backwards and Dalits of the adopted a Statutory Resolution foreign affairs, defence and Reorganization Bill, 2019 in country will now get the right recommending the President communications were with Rajya Sabha on 5 August 2019, to go to Jammu and Kashmir of India to issue a public the central government. the Home Minister, Shri Amit and take property there and be notification ceasing operation Jammu and Kashmir could Shah said Article 370 which called residents. of all clauses of the Article make its own rules relating was temporary in nature never Shri V. Vijayasai Reddy 370 from the date of such to permanent residency, allowed Jammu and Kashmir (YSR Congress) said the steps notification except clause ownership of property, etc. It to integrate with India. It did taken by the government will (1) which shall provide for could bar Indians from outside not allow the backward and strengthen the sovereignty application of all provisions of the state from purchasing deprived people of the state to of the country, remove the Constitution, as amended property or settling there. take the benefit of many central discrimination among citizens from time to time, without any The provisions of Article acts including reservation in of India, bring peace and help modifications or exceptions, 370, however, were temporary employment and education. in the development of Jammu notwithstanding anything provisions and the President Since legislative powers of and Kashmir. Shri Biswajit contrary contained in any other of India had the power by a state are vested in both Daimary (BPF) said the Bill article of the Constitution or any public notification to declare Houses of Parliament during is absolutely essential for the provision of the Constitution of that Article 370 shall cease the President’s rule in that state law and order, sovereignty and Jammu and Kashmir or any law, to be operative or shall be and since Jammu and Kashmir security of the country. Shri document, judgment, ordinance, operative only with such is under President’s rule, Vaiko (MDMK) said it is a day order, byelaw, rule, regulation, exceptions and modifications Parliament needs to exercise of sorrow as the government notification, custom or usage and from such date as he may the State’s legislative power has not kept its promise having the force of law in the specify. The recommendation and pass the Bill, said the made to the people of Jammu territory of India, or any other of the Constituent Assembly Home Minister. and Kashmir. Dr Subhash instrument, treaty or agreement of Jammu and Kashmir was Shri Bhupender Yadav Chandra (Independent) said as envisaged under Article 363 necessary before the President (BJP) said the resolution to end lives have been lost in Kashmir or otherwise to the state of issues such a notification. Article 370 has been moved only because of the Article Jammu and Kashmir. Since the Legislative Assembly to establish social justice and 370 and its removal would Accordingly, the President of the state had been dissolved welfare state in Jammu and help in bringing peace and of India, Shri Ram Nath and the state was under Kashmir. Because of Article 370, development in the state. Shri Kovind declared abrogation President’s rule, the Parliament several progressive legislations Amar Singh (Independent) said of the provisions of Article 370 of India exercised the power of could not be implemented and the mistake of treating Jammu with effect from 6 August 2019. the state Assembly. the state became a victim of and Kashmir differently was The Constitution (Application Jammu and Kashmir was corruption and terrorism While made years ago and today is to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, under Governor’s rule following Shri A. Navaneethakrishnan a historic day to correct that 2019 made by the President the collapse of the PDF-BJP (AIADMK) welcomed the mistake. Shri Birendra Prasad was notified on 5 August which government on 20 June 2018 Statutory Resolution and the Baishya (AGP) congratulated superseded the Constitution and the Assembly was kept Bill, Shri Prasanna Acharya the government for this historic, (Application to Jammu and under suspender animation. (BJD) believed the initiatives bold and courageous step and Kashmir) Order, 1954 that Later on 21 November 2018, will bring the state on par with believed a new journey will provided special status to the state Governor dissolved the rest of India. Shri Ram begin for Jammu and Kashmir. the state. Consequently, the the Assembly. The state was Nath Thakur (JD-U) wanted Sardar Balwinder Singh Constitution of India has brought under President’s rule the matter to be resolved Bhunder (SAD) supporting the become applicable to Jammu on 20 December 2018. through mutual discussions. government’s moves asked for and Kashmir, on par with other Both the Houses also Shri Swapan Dasgupta protecting the minorities. Dr states/Union Territories (UTs) passed the Jammu and (Nominated) said this is a Subramanian Swamy (BJP) of the country. Kashmir Reorganization Bill, very proud day for the whole said a great step has been taken Article 370 had limited the 2019 reorganising the state country as all citizens of the today for the consolidation power of Parliament to make into two Union Territories to country have been made equal. of the unity of India. What laws for the state of Jammu be called Union Territory of Shri Sanjay Raut (Shiv Sena) remains is to implement the and Kashmir in certain areas. Ladakh and the Union Territory believed the day will always Resolution unanimously passed It allowed certain amount of of Jammu and Kashmir. be remembered for removing by Parliament to take back the autonomy to the state which Article 370, a stigma for the portions of Kashmir occupied

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state into two UTs said it is the Shri Amit Shah, said Article foremost duty of the Council of 370 has done great harm to States to protect the rights of the people of Jammu and the States, and by protecting Kashmir and Ladakh. The the rights of the States, protect refugees who went to Jammu the rights of the people of those and Kashmir have not got States. In repealing Article 370, citizenship till date. Due to the government is unleashing Article 370, democracy never the forces which it cannot percolated in Jammu and control. Shri K.K. Ragesh (CPI- Kashmir, corruption flourished, by Pakistan. Shri Sasmit Patra the integration achieved in M) said the Bill tantamount to and poverty became deep (BJD) said reorganising Jammu the past 20 to 30 years. He assassination of the Constitution rooted. This section 370 is and Kashmir into two Union said the government has and the democratic ethos anti-women, anti-Dalit, anti- Territories will ensure their betrayed the trust of the people and secular fabric of India. tribal and this is also the root of development and security. Shri of Kashmir who adopted Shri Abdul Wahab (IUML) terrorism. Removal of obstacle T.K. Rangarajan (CPI-M) said secularism of India and did not questioned the way the Bill has of article 370 is necessary for the central government should prefer Pakistan despite being been brought before the House. developing Kashmir like the have consulted the people of of same religion. Shri Derek Shri C.M. Ramesh (BJP) said rest of the country. Despite the state before bifurcating the O’Brien (TMC) termed the the bifurcation of the state will not having clear majority in state into two UTs. Dr Narendra move as unconstitutional and be beneficial to the people of the Council of States, the Jadhav (Nominated) said the a black day for parliamentary the region. The Minister of State, government was able to get amendment of Article 370 will democracy as the Resolution Shri Ramdas Athawale (RPI-A) support for the Resolution and establish equality among all and Bill were brought hastily observed the Bill should have the Bill which were passed with Indian citizens. Prof. Manoj without any consultation. Shri been brought long before. Shri very comfortable majority. Kumar Jha (RJD) asked the Sushil Kumar Gupta (AAP) Kapil Sibal (INC) said what is The Statutory Resolution government to renounce ego said scrapping of Article 370 is called historic, only history will and the Jammu and Kashmir and wholeheartedly embrace in national interest. Describing judge whether it is historic or not. Reorganization Bill, 2019 were the Kashmiris. Shri Tiruchi the move taken in a hurry, Prof. The step of the government is discussed in Lok Sabha on 6 Siva (DMK) described the Ram Gopal Yadav (SP) said going to remove the foundation August 2019. The Resolution statutory Resolution and the had the government taken of the Constitution. was adopted, and the Bill was Bill as unconstitutional as the political parties and public The Minister of Finance, passed by a large majority. Article 370 can be changed representatives of Kashmir in Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman Moving the motion for only with the consent of the confidence, the doubts lurking (BJP) said the special status consideration of the Resolution state Legislature and presently in the mind of the people would of Jammu and Kashmir starts and the Bill in Lok Sabha, Shri there is no Legislature because not have been there. and ends with discrimination Amit Shah made it clear that of President’s rule in the state. The Minister of State Dr against women, SC, and ST and Jammu and Kashmir is an He was afraid that in future the Jitendra Singh (BJP) described for the last seventy years the integral part of India and no government can reduce any Article 370 as a miscarriage country has been waiting for one can stop Parliament from state into a UT. of history and one of the its removal. Shri Jose K. Mani framing laws for Jammu and Shri Hishey Lachungpa gravest blunders of the post (KC-M) said the dissolution of Kashmir. Initiating the debate, (SDF) said the steps will independent India. Shri Binoy the state Assembly ensured Shri Manish Tewari (INC) definitely strengthen the unity Viswam (CPI), referring to the that the President does not said the Constitution of India and integrity of India. Shri move to create two UTs said need to consult representatives provides that the Legislative Shamsher Singh Manhas no democratic government of the people of Jammu & Assembly and the Legislative (BJP) said the steps taken can think of doing politics Kashmir as required by the Council of a state are required by the government will help in such a very ugly manner. Constitution. Shri Amar to be consulted before its in creating employment Expressing shock at the haste Patnaik (BJD) said the bifurcation or any change in and provide citizenship to in which the government tabled Resolution will bring the people its boundaries but in this case many entitled people. Shri the Reorganization Bill, Smt. of Jammu and Kashmir into the Parliament is being directed to Kanakamedala Ravindra Vandana Chavan (NCP) said it mainstream. Cabinet Minister decide the future of Jammu and Kumar (TDP) was happy that would have been much better Shri Prakash Javadekar (BJP) Kashmir by consulting itself. It the demand of the people of to bring it after discussion with said the separate provisions is nothing but a constitutional Ladakh region for UT status the leaders of the state. Shri made for Jammu and Kashmir tragedy. Shri Jugal Kishore has been fulfilled. Opposing Rakesh Sinha (BJP) described created a feeling of separatism Sharma (BJP) said Article 370 the move, Leader of Opposition Article 370 as a Himalayan and prevented the benefits has given unemployment, in Rajya Sabha, Shri Ghulam blunder, a historic distortion of several central Acts from corruption and terrorism to the Nabi Azad (INC) alleged that that has been rectified today. reaching to the people. people of Jammu and Kashmir by bringing this Bill, the NDA Shri P. Chidambaram (INC), Replying to the debate, and widened the gap between government has disintegrated referring to the division of the the Minister of Home Affairs, the state and rest of India. Shri

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T.R. Baalu (DMK) said not in Jammu and Kashmir and consulting the state Legislature wanted to know whether people on the issue amounts to of Kashmir were happy with the ignoring the will of the people. move. Shri Hasnain Masoodi Shri Sudip Bandyopadhyay (J&K NC) also opposed the (AITC) said the government government’s decision saying should have discussed the that the trust of Jammu and matter with the leaders of all Kashmir has been broken. the political parties before Shri P. K. Kunhalikutty taking such a crucial step which (IUML) said the steps taken has shaken the country. The by the government will have Minister of State, Dr Jitendra serious implications. Shri Singh (BJP) said Article 370 Jamyang Tsering Namgyal was the gravest blunder (BJP) said it is a historic day as in the post-independence the historical mistake has been India and this day will be rectified. Stating that Article remembered as a day of 370 has been misused against redemption. Shri Kanumuru the minorities in Jammu and Raghu Ramakrishnaraju (YSR Kashmir, he said this is for the Congress) said since provisions first time that a government is Adv. A. M. Ariff (CPI-M) said unconstitutional and ultra vires of Article 370 are temporary, listening to Ladakh people’s this is the biggest attack on leading to the disintegration there is no issue in their sentiments. Shri Chirag national unity and the concept of Jammu and Kashmir state. removal. Cabinet Minister Shri Kumar Paswan (LJSP) said of India as a Union of States. Cabinet Minister Shri Ravi Arvind Sawant (Shiv Sena) the state will now join the Dr Sanjay Jaiswal (BJP) said Shankar Prasad (BJP) said welcomed the steps taken by journey of development and it is because of Article 370 removal of certain provisions the government. progress. Dr Shashi Tharoor people who went to Kashmir of Article 370 will lead to Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh (INC) alleged the Bill has been are still nomads even after 70 the implementation of many (JD-U) said the government brought without consulting years and the Bill will deliver schemes aimed at ensuring should not have touched this the local parties, the State justice to those people. Shri welfare of the masses at large. contentious issue in view of the Legislature and democratically Asaduddin Owaisi (AIMIM) The Home Minister, Shri Amit prevailing situation in Jammu elected political leaders. No said the BJP has lived up to its Shah, in his reply said Article 370 and Kashmir. Shri Pinaki doubt Jammu and Kashmir electoral promise made in their has created a suspicion in the Misra (BJD) said under Article is an integral part of India but manifesto, but it has not lived up minds of the citizens and people 370(1)(d), many Presidential the way the government has to its constitutional duties. living abroad about the real Orders with regard to Jammu brought the Bill is an affront Shri Hanuman Beniwal status of Jammu and Kashmir. and Kashmir have been issued to the values as a democracy. (RLP) praised the government The feeling of alienation and the Order of 2019 is of Shri Jayadev Galla (TDP) said for its decision to make Jammu and terrorism in Jammu and similar nature that supersedes the move will lead to complete and Kashmir and Ladakh Kashmir has its roots in Article all previous Orders. Cabinet integration of Jammu and separate UTs. Smt. Navneet 370. Because of this Article, Minister Shri Pralhad Joshi Kashmir into India with one Ravi Rana (Independent) felt the government of India has (BJP) said it is unfortunate to flag and one Constitution. real independence will come not been able to apply several hear dissenting voices from Shri Sukhbir Singh Badal with the passage of the Bill. constitutional reforms and many the Congress Party while the (SAD) said his party stands for Shri Ramesh Bidhuri (BJP) Acts to the Jammu and Kashmir. whole nation is speaking in one a strong federal set up and a accused the Congress party He assured that the status of a voice on the issue. Shri Girish strong and united India. Smt. and two families from Jammu full-fledged state will be restored Chandra (BSP) was happy to Anupriya Patel (Apna Dal) and Kashmir for the present to the Jammu and Kashmir as support the Bill. Shri Nama said Article 370 prevented situation in the state. Dr soon as the circumstances Nageswara Rao (TRS) said implementation of many central Nishikant Dubey (BJP) said permit. He requested the House today is a day of development laws in Kashmir and bonding it is because of the mistake to think afresh about Article as it would usher an era of with the rest of the country. of the Congress party the 370 and grant opportunities for employment, industrialization Shri M. Selvaraj (CPI) regretted country has suffered so much development to the people of and development. Smt. Supriya that the autonomy given to and the mistake has been the valley, Ladakh and Jammu. The Jammu and Kashmir Sule (NCP) wanted to know the the state for certain specific corrected today. Shri Vinayak Reorganization Act, 2019 timetable for holding elections in reasons has been snatched Bhaurao Raut (Shiv Sena) received the assent of the Jammu and Kashmir and wanted away. Shri P. Raveendranath said the people of Kashmir President on the 9 August 2019 a Legislative Assembly for Kumar (AIADMK) said the steps have achieved freedom in the Ladakh as well. Shri Akhilesh taken by the government will true sense today. Shri N.K. paving the way for creation of Yadav (SP) criticized the liberate women, children and Premachandran (RSP) said two Union Territories - Jammu government over the situation youth of Jammu and Kashmir. the Resolution and Bill are and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

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THIRD READING: INDIA The Banning of Unregulated Deposit for its effective enforcement. The Banning of Bill wherein foremost right would lie with the Schemes Bill, 2019 Unregulated Deposit Schemes Bill, 2018 was depositor. For this purpose, time limit had Non-banking entities are allowed to raise introduced in the Lok Sabha on 18 July 2018. also been prescribed for taking action and deposits from the public under the provisions The said Bill was referred to the Standing authorities had also been designated. Similarly, of various statutes enacted by the Central Committee on Finance on 10 August 2018 for power to frame rules had also been conferred Government and the State Governments. examination and report thereon. The Bill along to the states. However, the regulatory framework for deposit with the amendments as recommended by The Minister while replying to the debate taking activity in the country is not seamless. the said Standing Committee was considered inter alia clarified that the Bill is about banning The regulators operate in well defined areas and passed in the Sixteenth Lok Sabha on 13 of unregulated deposit schemes. The deposits within the financial sector by regulating February 2019. However, the Bill could not be taken in the ordinary course of business are particular kinds of entities or activities. For considered and passed in the Rajya Sabha. not banned under the Bill. This is to ensure that instance, Non-Banking Financial Companies Since, it was extremely critical to tackle the common people who are in need, do not face are under the regulatory and supervisory menace of illicit deposit taking activities in the any hardship. So, this had been taken care of in jurisdiction of the Reserve Bank of India. country, the Banning of Unregulated Deposit the Bill. Priority had been given to the depositor Similarly, Chit Funds, Money Circulation Schemes Ordinance, 2019 was promulgated on priority basis. The interest of the poor had including multi-level marketing schemes and by the President on 21 February 2019 in been protected under the Bill. schemes offered by co-operative societies exercise of his powers under article 123 of the The Bill was passed by Lok Sabha on 24 are under the domain of the respective State Constitution of India. July 2019 and by Rajya Sabha on 29 August Governments. In the same manner, the Accordingly, the Government brought 2019. The Bill as passed by both Houses of Collective Investment Schemes come under forward the Banning of Unregulated Deposit Parliament was assented to by the President of the purview of the Securities and Exchange Schemes Bill, 2019. The Ordinance Replacing India on 31 July 2019. Board of India. It had, however, been found that Bill aimed at preventing unregulated deposit de¬-spite such diverse regulatory framework, schemes or arrangements at their inception and The Muslim Women (Protection of schemes and arrangements leading to at the same time makes soliciting, inviting or Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2019 unauthorised collection of money and deposits accepting deposits pursuant to an unregulated The Supreme Court of India in the matter of fraudulently, by inducing public to invest in deposit scheme as a punishable offence. The Shayara Bano Vs. Union of India and others uncertain schemes promising high returns or Bill sought to put in place a mechanism by and other connected matters, on 22 August other benefits, are still operating in the society. which the depositors can be repaid without 2017, in a majority judgment of 3:2, set The Central legislations such as the delay by attaching the assets of the defaulting aside the practice of talaq-e-biddat (three Prize Chits and Money Circulation Schemes establishments. The Bill also provided that its pronouncements of talaq, at one and the same (Banning) Act, 1978 and the Chit Funds provisions would not apply to deposits taken time) practiced by certain Muslim husbands to Act, 1982 and the legislations enacted by in the ordinary course of business in order to divorce their wives. This judgment gave a boost the State Governments had not been able to ensure that various entities are able to take to liberate Indian Muslim women from the age- completely address the issue of unregulated deposits in their ordinary course of business old practice of capricious and whimsical method deposit schemes run by unscrupulous without any difficulty. The objective of the Bill of divorce, by some Muslim men, leaving no elements. This regulatory gap was highlighted was to ensure that no hardship is caused to room for reconciliation. in the twenty-first Report of the Parliamentary genuine businesses, or to individuals borrowing The petitioner in the mentioned said Related Standing Committee on Finance money from their relatives or friends for case challenged, inter alia, talaq-e-biddat (Sixteenth Lok Sabha). The said Committee in personal reasons or to tide over a crisis. on the grounds that the said practice is its Report had recommended the requirement During the discussion on the Bill in discriminatory and against dignity of women. of “appropriate legislative provisions, coupled Parliament the Minister in-charge piloting The judgment vindicated the position taken by with effective administrative and enforcement the Bill inter alia stated that the Bill has been the Government of India that talaq-e-biddat is measures in order to protect the hard-earned brought to prevent the grabbing of hard-earned against constitutional morality, dignity of women savings and investments made by millions of money of millions of poor and innocent people and the principles of gender equality, as also people.” Presently, there are considerable across the country through unregulated deposit against gender equity guaranteed under the variations among State laws in protecting the schemes. However, this Bill was passed on Constitution. The All India Muslim Personal Law interests of depositors, and many unregulated 13 February 2019 during the 16th Lok Sabha Board (AIMPLB), which was the 7th respondent deposit taking schemes operate across State after having a comprehensive discussion in this in the case, in their affidavit, inter alia, contended boundaries. regard. But due to paucity of time, Rajya Sabha that it was not for the judiciary to decide matters In view of the above, Government had come could not pass the Bill and then the tenure of religious practices such as talaq-e-biddat, to a view that it had become necessary to have of 16th Lok Sabha came to an end. So the but for the Legislature to make any law on the a Central legislation to ensure a comprehensive Government had to promulgate an Ordinance. same. They had also submitted in the Supreme ban on unregulated deposit taking activity and The Government had brought a comprehensive Court that they would issue advisories to

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the members of the community against this and outside Parliament regarding the provisions inter alia stated that the Bill has been brought practice. of the pending Bill which enables any person forward to protect the rights of married Muslim In spite of the Supreme Court setting aside to give information to an officer in charge of a Women and to prohibit divorce by pronouncing talaq-e-biddat, and the assurance of AIMPLB, police station to take cognizance of the offence talaq by their husbands and to provide for there had been reports of divorce by way and making the offence non-bailable. matters connected therewith or incidental of talaq-e-biddat from different parts of the In order to address the above concerns, thereto. The Minister wondered that if more than country. It was seen that setting aside talaq-e- it had been decided to make the offence 20 Islamic countries in the world have controlled biddat by the Supreme Court had not worked as cognizable, if the information relating to the triple talaq then why India, being a secular any deterrent in bringing down the number of commission of an offence is given to an officer country, cannot do it? He observed that justice divorces by this practice among certain Muslims. in-charge of a police station by the married for women has been the care philosophy of the It was, therefore, felt that there was a need for Muslim women upon whom talaq is pronounced Indian constitution. This matter should not be State action to give effect to the order of the or any person related to her by blood or looked at with political or religious glasses. It is a Supreme Court and to redress the grievances marriage. It was also decided to make the question of justice and humanity. This matter is of victims of illegal divorce. Therefore, to protect offence non-bailable and compoundable at the neither political nor religious but one of women’s the rights of married Muslim women who are instance of the married Muslim woman with the justice, women’s dignity and respect. being divorced by triple talaq, a Bill, namely, permission of the Magistrate, on such terms and In favour of the Bill it was asserted that the the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on conditions as he might determine. Constitutional legislation is not for a particular Marriage) Bill, 2017, was introduced in, and As the Bill was pending for consideration community, it is for the people of India. This passed by, the Lok Sabha on 28 December in Rajya Sabha and the practice of divorce by law is for all the citizens of India. A number of 2017 and was pending in Rajya Sabha. triple talaq (i.e., talaq-e-biddat) was continuing, problems were faced and many controversies The aforesaid Bill proposed to declare there was an urgent need to take immediate were created in enactment of that law. Despite the practice of triple talaq as void and illegal action to prevent such practice by making all this, that law enacted. Charges were brought and made it an offence punishable with stringent provisions in the law. Since both in the society and women got their rights. There imprisonment up to three years and fine, and Houses of Parliament were not in session is only one religion of the country and that is triable by a Judicial Magistrate of the first class. and circumstances existed which rendered it the Constitution of India. Also that how could It was also proposed to provide subsistence necessary for the President to take immediate a parallel judiciary exist in the country when allowance to married Muslim women and action in the matter, the Muslim Women judicial role is assigned to the Judiciary under dependent children and also for the custody (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Ordinance, the Constitution of India. Further that the of minor children. The Bill further provided to 2018 with aforesaid changes was promulgated Muslim women were left out of the process of make the offence cognizable and non-bailable. on the 19 September 2018. changes which happened in the Hindu society. However, apprehensions had been raised in The Minister in-charge while piloting the Bill To bring the changes, somebody had to initiate.

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It was, therefore, averred that all needed to National Human Rights Commission, the State Replying to the discussion the Minister inter understand this aspect that women of this Human Rights Commissions and the Human alia stated the Amending Bill had been brought country are the biggest minority in this country. Rights Courts for protection of human rights. in to safeguard the rights of the citizens through It was, therefore, incumbent upon us to secure The National Human Rights Commission human rights by edifying and simplifying the justice for them. had proposed certain amendments to the complexities involved. Insofar as the demand In August 2017, the Supreme Court had Act to address the concerns raised by the of women empowerment and their adequate clearly declared the pronouncing of triple talaq Sub-Committee on Accreditation of the representation is concerned, the Bill contained as unconstitutional. There is, however, no point Global Alliance of National Human Rights the provision of having one more female in criminalizing this offence and it does not Institutions on the re-accreditation status of member on board other than the Chairperson carry out value and that too with a three years the said Commission. Besides this, certain of the Commission for women. With a view to jail term is totally uncalled for. The procedure State Governments had also proposed for affording more powers to the civil society, the for the break-up of the marriage should also amendment of the Act, as they had been facing number of representatives from civil society had be civil in nature. It was also argued that the difficulties in finding suitable candidates to the been enhanced from two to three. This would Supreme Court of India had pronounced the post of Chairperson of the respective State certainly lead to the increased participation of talaq e-biddat as unconstitutional. A number Commissions owing to the existing eligibility civil society and protect and strengthen social of other judgements delivered by the various criteria to the said post. and human rights. courts of the country have pronounced this In view of this position, a view emerged that The Amending Bill was passed by Lok practice as unconstitutional. But, there is not a it had become necessary to amend certain Sabha on 19 July 2019 and by Rajya Sabha single judgement where it had been said that provisions of the said Act. The proposed on 22 July 2019. The Bill as passed by both the Government should make the talaq-e-biddat amendments were intended to enable both the Houses of Parliament was assented to by the a criminal offence. Commission as well as the State Commissions President of India on 27 July 2019. Accordingly, The Minister in his reply explained the to be more compliant with the Paris Principles the Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) circumstances in which ordinances were concerning its autonomy, independence, Bill, 2019 stood amended. required to be promulgated. While thanking pluralism and wide-ranging functions in order to members for their active participation during effectively protect and promote human rights. The Repealing and Amending Bill, 2019 the structured debate inter alia stated that it The Government accordingly brought This Bill is one of those periodical measures by has been asked as to why this Bill has been forward the Amending Legislation viz. the which enactments, which had ceased to be in brought exclusively in the case of Muslims. Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) force or had become obsolete or the retention He then clarified that it was only so because Bill, 2019. During discussion on the Amending whereof as separate Acts is unnecessary practice of triple talaq is prevalent only in this Legislation in both Houses of Parliament, the are repealed or by which the formal defects community and in no other community. A Minister in-charge of the Bill while piloting detected in enactments are corrected. The number of changes were made in Hindu law the Bill inter alia stated that the Government Government accordingly brought forward the after discussion in 1955. This very House is committed towards human beings and Repealing and Amending Bill, 2019. passed it. He further stated that the triple talaq humanity. The objective of the Bill is to make As per section 2 of the Bill, 25 Bills which has been controlled in more than 20 Islamic National Human Rights Commission and State were found to have been outlived in their utility, countries. There should be legal provisions to Human Rights Commissions more capable and had been proposed to be repealed. These Bills lodge criminal complaint and take legal action comprehensive and ensure representation of had been listed in the First Schedule to the Bill. in this matter. There should be legal provision different sections. In the Bill there is proposal to During the debate in both Houses of to lodge such complaint and take legal action in reduce the term of Chairpersons and members Parliament, the Minister in-charge of the Bill the matter. Provision has been made that such of National Human Rights Commission and inter alia stated that the Government were in complaint can only be filed by victim women State Human Rights Commissions from five the process of repealing 58 laws through this or their blood relatives or in-laws. Provision for years to three years. Provision has been Repealing and Amending Bill. The Minister compromise has also been made in the Bill. made to transfer the work related to human also stated that 1,428 archaic laws had been The Amending Bill was passed by Lok rights of the Union territories (except Delhi) repealed so far since the Government came to Sabha on 25 July 2019 and by Rajya Sabha to the State Human Rights Commissions to power. The majority of these laws were enacted on 30 July, 2019. The Bill as passed by both strengthen the functioning of National Human during the British rule. The Minister requested Houses of Parliament was assented to by the Rights Commission, a provision had also been the House that this is a very historic work and President of India on 31 July 2019. Accordingly, made to empower its Secretary-General and that it be passed unanimously. There emerged the Protection of Human Rights (Amendment) Secretary of State Human Rights Commission a broad consensus among Members in regard Bill, 2019 stood amended. with administrative and financial power. to the Repealing and Amending Bill. Through these provisions, an effort had been The Amending Bill was passed by Lok The Protection of Human Rights made to further protect the human rights by Sabha on 29 July 2019 and by Rajya Sabha (Amendment) Bill, 2019 providing more powers to the National Human on 2 August 2019. The Bill as passed by both The Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 Rights Commission and State Human Rights Houses of Parliament was assented to by the was enacted to provide for the constitution of a Commissions. President of India on 8 August 2019.

The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing | 373 BOOK REVIEW

The Parliamentarian: Book Review

‘Saving India from Indira: Untold Story of The Emergency’

by Mr J.P. Goyal, a legal reign of terror unprecedented memoir dictated by him in 1979 luminary who was Senior in independent India. Forcible on these events leading up to Advocate in the Supreme sterilisations, demolition of and during the Emergency. While Court of India. He later went houses, and arrests without he made no attempt to publish on to serve as Member of assigning any reasons were them in his lifetime, the papers Parliament in the Rajya rampant during the 21 months were found by his daughter, Ms Sabha, the Upper House of of The Emergency. People of Rama Goyal, who prepared them the Parliament of India. The India reacted by delivering a for publication. It is these papers book is a no-holds barred resounding defeat to Mrs Gandhi that are now published in the account of a crucial insider in the elections held in March form of the book under review. and provides a gripping 1977 and voted her party out of The book provides an narrative. power. authentic first-person account In 1971, Mrs Indira Mr J. P. Goyal was a key of the events leading up to and Gandhi, the then Prime lawyer for Raj Narain in his during The Emergency. It reveals Minister of India, won the election petition against Mrs many hitherto unknown facts election to the Lok Sabha Indira Gandhi, having been his that Mr Goyal was privy to and from her constituency Rae lawyer since 1960. He played a the twists and turns in the legal Bareli and was chosen by principal part in the prosecution case and the legal and political her party to continue as of Raj Narain’s case against Mrs strategies involved in the fight Title: Saving India from the Prime Minister of India. Raj Indira Gandhi and in subsequent against The Emergency. Mr Indira: Untold Story of the Narain, her principal opponent in legal matters during The Goyal points out that he felt Emergency - Memoirs of J.P. her Lok Sabha constituency, filed Emergency period thereafter. He the necessity of writing his Goyal an election petition challenging played a most crucial role in the memoirs after the publication Author: Rama Goyal (ed.) Mrs Indira Gandhi’s election to events leading up to Mrs Indira of an incomplete and incorrect Published by Rupa Publications the Lok Sabha on various counts Gandhi losing the election case description of events leading up India Pvt. Ltd, New Delhi. Price: of election malpractice. The in the Allahabad High Court. to The Emergency. At one point, Rs 500/- case resulted in her election to An attempt was made to review the election case against Mrs the Lok Sabha (Lower House) a judgement of the Supreme Indira Gandhi had been rendered Book Review by General V.K. being declared as ‘void’ by the Court that protected the basic almost futile by a perverse order Singh (Retd.), MP Allahabad High Court on 12 structure of the Constitution of the presiding judge in the Each year on the anniversary June 1975 on two counts of by a wrongfully constituted Allahabad High Court, wherein of The Emergency (1975–77) corrupt practices employed 13-judge Bench of the Supreme the judge recalled his own order in India, which was imposed on by her during her election Court of India. Mr J.P Goyal without any reference, rhyme or 25 June 1975, many articles campaign in 1971. Mrs Indira played a central and crucial reason. Mr Goyal writes about and sometimes books come Gandhi obtained a stay order on role in thwarting this attempt how he pursued the matter out on the events during the the judgement for 20 days and and ensured that the basic in the Supreme Court that Emergency. The Emergency appealed to the Supreme Court structure of the Constitution restored propriety in the case. was the darkest period in Indian of India, the highest court in India. was not trampled upon and In another chapter, Mr Goyal democracy. The book under The judgement of the Supreme Fundamental Rights enshrined gives a detailed narration of the review here, Saving India from Court on 25 June 1975 on therein are preserved. During manner in which Raj Narain was Indira: Untold Story of the her appeal was the immediate The Emergency period, he used arrested in the wee hours of the Emergency - Memoirs of J. P. catalyst for the imposition of to visit the political leaders morning after the imposition Goyal (edited by Rama Goyal, The Emergency on 25 June detained in jails and became the of The Emergency, which Mr economist and editor – she is 1975 just before midnight at go-to person for the relatives and Goyal was witness to. Mr Goyal the daughter of J.P. Goyal), is her behest. Political leaders and friends of many of the leaders provides an account of meeting not just another book on The workers of the Opposition parties and workers in jail. He was in the political leaders in jail, most Emergency. It rises above other were imprisoned overnight, press forefront of the battle against notably Jayaprakash Narayan, existing books on the subject by censorship imposed, and civil The Emergency. who became so unwell in jail that providing an insider’s narration liberties curtailed through various Mr. J. P. Goyal expired in he had to be released on parole of the events before and during amendments to the Constitution September 2013, leaving behind and remained ill thereafter. The Emergency. It is penned of India. What followed was a a file of papers in the form of a In another chapter, Mr Goyal

374 | The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing BOOK REVIEW

provides details of the strategy of the Government of India, who Lord Meghnad Desai, a Member and political history of India employed by him and his lawyer unfortunately passed away in of the House of Lords of the in the 1970s, especially the colleagues to successfully thwart August 2019 soon after the United Kingdom, describes the period of The Emergency in the wrongful attempt by the then book’s publication in June 2019, book in his Foreword as ‘a gem of India. The legal and political Chief Justice of India to review states that ‘before and during The a book, an heirloom’. Writing that history of the darkest period and amend the Kesavananda Emergency, he (Mr J.P. Goyal) ‘a small number of hardy lawyers in post-independence India Bharati judgement of 1973 that was not merely a witness to fought to limit the damage that provides lessons for everyone protected the basic features of history but an active participant she (Indira Gandhi) could do’, he to be on guard to prevent such the Constitution. If this attempt in the making of history’ and that, states ‘we should be grateful to occurrences happening again. of the Chief Justice had been ‘having witnessed the ups, downs Shri J.P. Goyal and his friends, The book provides an example successful, then any amendment and manoeuvres in all these and their example should not just of non-violent resistance to to the Constitution of India could cases, he was one who was fully be remembered but emulated authoritarian rule and is a must- have been made, including competent and uniquely placed to when and if the need arises’. read book. declaring India to be a dynastic write his memoirs and leave it for The book is well buttressed monarchy for all times to come. the benefit of future generations.’ with a detailed set of General Vijay Kumar Singh, Mr Goyal provides a brilliant Mr Jaitley, a leading lawyer and Appendices, documents from the PVSM, AVSM, YSM, ADC, MP is an blow-by-blow account of how politician himself, had been proclamation of The Emergency, Indian politician and a retired four- this attempt was thwarted and imprisoned on 26 June 1975 press censorship etc. The star general in the Indian Army. He democracy saved in India. for organising the first protest Editor’s Notes at the end of is currently serving as the Minister The book is endorsed by against The Emergency, and was each chapter provide nuanced of State for Road Transport and two luminaries, Mr Arun Jaitley in prison for 19 months during details on various events and Highways in the Government of India. and Lord Meghnad Desai, who The Emergency. Being familiar legal terminology mentioned During his military career, Singh have both written separate with the events and rigours of in the main text, making it an served as the 24th Chief of the Army Forewords to the book. Mr The Emergency himself and easy read for a non-lawyer too. Staff from 2010 to 2012. He has Arun Jaitley, former Minister of being a lawyer, he was uniquely The book will be of interest to written an autobiography, ‘Courage Finance and Corporate Affairs placed to comment on the book. anyone interested in the legal and Conviction’.

The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing | 375 Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA)

CPA Patron, Officers, Executive Committee, Regional Representatives, Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Steering Committee and CPA Regional Secretaries

PATRON: VICE-PATRON: CARIBBEAN, AMERICAS Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II Vacant (Canada Federal) AND THE ATLANTIC Head of the Commonwealth Vacant, Turks & Caicos CPA Executive Committee (2016-2021)* To complete term Executive Committee Members’ dates of membership are indictated below each name. started by other Member. Correct at time of printing. *Terms extended as no CPA General Assembly held in 2018 and 2020. Portrait of The Queen © John Swannell/Camera Press Hon. Bridgid Annisette-George, Officers Regional AUSTRALIA MP, Speaker of the House, Representatives Trinidad & Tobago, (2017-2021)* Hon. John Ajaka, MLC, President of the Legislative Council, New Hon. Andy Glenn Daniel, MP PRESIDENT: (2019-2021)*: AFRICA South Wales, (2016-2021)*, Also Speaker of the House of Vacant (Canada Federal) CPA Vice-Chairperson. Assembly, St Lucia, (2019-2022) Hon. Bernard Songa VICE-PRESIDENT: Sibalatani, MP, Vice- Hon. Bruce Atkinson, MLC INDIA (2019-2021)*: Chairperson of the National Victoria, (2017-2021)* Vacant (Ghana) Council, Namibia Shri Premchand Aggarwal, MLA (2016-2021)* Hon. Senator Scott Ryan, Speaker of Legislative Assembly, CHAIRPERSON OF THE President of the Senate Uttarakhand , (2016-2021)* EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Hon. Lazarous Chungu Australia Federal, (2019-2022) To complete term started by other Member. (2017-2021)*: Bwalya, MP, Zambia Hon. Emilia Monjowa Lifaka, MP (2016-2021)* BRITISH ISLANDS AND Shri Hitendra Goswami, MLA Deputy Speaker, Cameroon MEDITERRANEAN Speaker of the Legislative Hon. Dr Makali Mulu, MP Assembly, Assam, (2017-2021)* VICE-CHAIRPERSON Kenya Hon. Stuart McMillan, MSP (2019-2021)*: (2017-2021)* Scotland (stand-by Branch for Vacant, India Union, (2019-2022) Hon. John Ajaka, MLC Northern Ireland), (2016-2021)* President of the Legislative Rt Hon. Sephiri Enoch PACIFIC Council, New South Wales. Motanyane, MP, Speaker of the Hon. Leona Roberts, MLA Regional Representative, Australia National Assembly, Lesotho Falkland Islands, (2017-2021)* Hon. Clayton Mitchell, MP Region (2016-2021)* (2017-2021)* New Zealand, (2016-2021)* Hon. Ian Liddell-Grainger, MP TREASURER (2019-2022): Hon. Mensah Bonsu, MP United Kingdom, (2019-2022) Hon. Francesca Semoso, MHR Hon. Datuk Shamsul Iskander Ghana, (2019-2022) Deputy Speaker, Bougainville, Md. Akin, MP (Malaysia) CANADA (2017-2021)* Rt Hon. Dr Abass Bundu, MP COMMONWEALTH WOMEN Speaker of the Parliament of Hon. Maryse Gaudreault, MNA, Hon. Ratu Epeli Nailatikau PARLIAMENTARIANS (CWP) Sierra Leone, (2019-2022) Québec, (2016-2021)* To complete Speaker of Parliament of Fiji CHAIRPERSON (2019-2022): term started by other Member. (2019-2022) Hon. Shandana Gulzar Khan, ASIA MNA (Pakistan) Hon. Kevin Murphy, MHA SOUTH-EAST ASIA Hon. Dr Fehmida Mirza, MP Speaker of the House of CPA SMALL BRANCHES Pakistan, (2016-2021)* Assembly, Nova Scotia Hon. Datuk Wira Haji Othman CHAIRPERSON (2017-2021)* Muhamad, MP, Speaker of (2019-2022): Hon. Dr Lal Chand Ukrani, MPA Legislature, Malacca, (2016-2021)* Hon. Niki Rattle, Speaker of the Sindh, (2017-2021)* Vacant Parliament of the Cook Islands Canada Federal Hon. Mr Zainal Sapari, MP Hon. Karu Jayasuriya, MP (2019-2022) Singapore, (2017-2021)* The CPA Coordinating Committee Speaker of Parliament comprises the CPA Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, Treasurer, CPA Sri Lanka, (2019-2022) Hon. Datuk Dr Ronald Small Branches Chairperson Kiandee, MP, Deputy Speaker, and Commonwealth Women Malaysia (2019-2022) Parliamentarians (CWP) Chairperson.

376 | The Parliamentarian | 2019: Issue Four | 100th year of publishing Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA)

CPA Small Branches Steering Committee CPA Regional CANADA Mr Michel Patrice CPA SMALL BRANCHES CARIBBEAN, AMERICAS Secretaries Parliament of Canada CHAIRPERSON AND THE ATLANTIC AFRICA Hon. Niki Rattle, Speaker of the Hon. W. McKeeva Bush, CARIBBEAN, AMERICAS & Mr Steven Kagaigai Parliament of the Cook Islands OBE, JP, Speaker of the ATLANTIC Parliament of Tanzania (2019-2022) Legislative Assembly, Mr Pedro E. Eastmond Cayman Islands, (2019-2020) Parliament of Barbados ASIA AFRICA Also: Vice-Chairperson of the Mr Syed Shamoon Hashmi Hon. Gervais Henrie, MNA CPA Small Branches. INDIA Parliament of Pakistan Seychelles Smt Snehlata Shrivastava (2019-2021) PACIFIC Parliament of India AUSTRALIA Hon.Tofa Nafoitoa Talaimanu Mr Jerome Brown AUSTRALIA Keti, MP, Samoa PACIFIC Parliament of Australia Hon. Joy Burch, MLA (2019-2022) Ms Wendy Hart Speaker of the Legislative Parliament of New Zealand BRITISH ISLANDS & Assembly, Australian Capital SOUTH-EAST ASIA MEDITERRANEAN Territory (2019-2021) Hon. Dato’ Haji Hamdan bin SOUTH-EAST ASIA Mr Jon Davies Bahari, MLA, Speaker of the Mrs Roosme Hamzah Parliament of the United Kingdom BRITISH ISLANDS AND Legislative Assembly, Perlis Parliament of Malaysia MEDITERRANEAN (2019-2020) Deputy Lyndon Trott Guernsey The CPA Small Branches Steering Committee comprises the CPA Small CPA Headquarters Secretariat (2019-2020) Branches Chairperson and seven Members who represent the seven out Mr Jarvis Matiya CANADA of the nine Regions of the CPA with Acting CPA Secretary-General Small Branches. Hon. Nils Clarke, MLA Speaker of the Legislative Commonwealth Parliamentary Tel: +44 (0)20 7799 1460 Assembly, Yukon Association, CPA Headquarters Email: [email protected] (2019-2022) Secretariat, Richmond House, www.cpahq.org Houses of Parliament, London Twitter @CPA_Secretariat SW1A 0AA, United Kingdom Facebook.com/CPAHQ

A full listing of all CPA Branches can be found in the CPA Directory at: www.cpahq.org

Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Steering Committee

CWP PRESIDENT ASIA CANADA PACIFIC Vacant Ms Munaza Hassan, MNA Ms Laura Ross, MLA Ms Anahila Kanongata’a- Canada Federal Pakistan Saskatchewan Suisuiki, MP (2019-2021) (2018-2021) (2017-2020) New Zealand Parliament (2017-2020) CWP CHAIRPERSON AUSTRALIA CARIBBEAN, AMERICAS Hon. Shandana Gulzar Khan, Hon. Michelle O’Byrne, MP AND THE ATLANTIC SOUTH-EAST ASIA MNA, Pakistan Tasmania Hon. Jeannine Giraudy- Hon. Alice Lau Kiong Yieng, MP (2019-2022) Acting CWP Rep (2019-2022) McIntyre, MP Malaysia President of the Senate, St Lucia (2019-2022) AFRICA BRITISH ISLANDS AND (2018-2021) Hon. Zainab Gimba, MP MEDITERRANEAN Nigeria Hon. Margaret Mitchell, MSP INDIA (2019-2022) Scotland Smt. Kirron Kher, MP Also CWP Vice-Chairperson Acting CWP Rep (2019-2022) Lok Sabha, India (2017-2020) (2019-2020) SUBSCRIBE TODAY THE PARLIAMENTARIAN

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