Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Apology Over Accusations of Support For Rapists Required
Denis O’Rourke MP
Spokesperson for Justice
Constitutional Review
10 NOVEMBER 2015
Apology Over Accusations of Support For Rapists And Child Molesters Required
New Zealand First has questioned the Speaker’s ruling in Parliament that the Prime Minister did not need to apologise for saying the Labour Party supported rapists, child molesters and murderers.
“Under Standing Orders no reply to a question can contain references that are harmful to the reputation of the House or any member,” Spokesperson on Justice Denis O’Rourke said.
“The Prime Minister’s accusation was discreditable and therefore under Standing Order 386(2)(C) he should have been instructed to apologise.
“We raised this with the Speaker and we are pleased that he responded saying he would reflect on his decision.”
The remarks were made during questions in Parliament on New Zealand detainees on Christmas Island.
ENDS
Gordon Campbell: Gordon Campbell On The Folly Of Making Apologies In A Social Vacuum.
Cooper Legal: Censorship Is Alive And Well In New Zealand
NZ Government: NZ Signs Trade Deal With Costa Rica, Iceland And Switzerland
Forest And Bird: Modernisation Of Conservation System Must Focus On Improving Conservation
NZCTU: Uniformed Defence Force Should Not Be Used As Strike Breakers
MetService: Damp Start To Canterbury Anniversary Weekend; Wet Start For Coldplay Fans In Auckland
RNZ: Senior Lawyers Call For Treaty Principles Bill To Be Abandoned
