Points of Order — Written Questions

I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. You will be aware that there is general concern that the Prime Minister is not here to answer questions in the House. I would like to draw your attention now to written questions that the Prime Minister is not answering. I have written to you about a question where I asked: “… what are the names, titles, and businesses of those people invited to attend the Tauranga Business-Government Forum?”, to which the Prime Minister replied: “Invitations were extended to and accepted by a wide range of people in various businesses in the Tauranga region.”—even though she had sent out the invitations herself, and the chamber of commerce has confirmed that the Prime Minister’s office organised the business-Government forum. I wrote to you about the matter. You required me to raise it with the Prime Minister. I wrote to her. She did not respond. I would now draw this matter to your attention.

💬 Mr SPEAKER: Yes, I ruled, under Speaker’s ruling 130/4, that the member had to take the matter up with the Minister first, which he said he has done. There is no response. I think he should come now to see me. I do not expect to deal with the details of written replies on the floor of the House, but I am happy for him to come and see me.

I raise a point of order, Mr Speaker. My point of order also involves the Prime Minister, and it relates to Standing Order 375, “Delivery of replies to questions for written answer”. I put two questions down to the Prime Minister on 13 August: written questions Nos 8174 and 8215. My office has contacted the Prime Minister’s office repeatedly. Those answers were due on the 21st, and we still have not had a reply. I think that when the Prime Minister does return, it would be a good idea for you to speak to her and tell her that she is required to answer written questions.

💬 Mr SPEAKER: I will contact her office today.