Urgent Debates Declined — Whaling—Arrest of Peter Bethune by Japanese Authorities

I have received a letter from the Hon Pete Hodgson seeking to debate under Standing Order 380 the Government’s new immigration retirement package announced by the Minister of Immigration on 10 March 2010. This is a particular case of recent occurrence involving ministerial responsibility. However, as Speaker’s ruling 175/6 makes clear, not every ministerial announcement, even an important one, will give grounds for an urgent debate. There must be such an element of urgency that the matter must take precedence over other business. This application for urgent debate is declined.

I have also received a letter from Metiria Turei seeking an urgent debate on the “Government’s decision” of 12 March 2010 not to denounce the arrest in Japan of Pete Bethune of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. This is a particular case of recent occurrence. The Government, though, has no responsibility for the actions of a private citizen or for the actions of the Japanese authorities, and there is a legal process being followed in Japan. An oral question on this matter was lodged and answered today. I am not persuaded that this matter requires the immediate attention of the House, to take precedence over other business. This application is also declined.