Obituaries — Sir John Wallace, KNZM, QC

I seek leave to move a motion without notice on the passing of Sir John Wallace, who, as you know, was the Chief Human Rights Commissioner, a High Court judge, and the chairman of the royal commission on the electoral reform structure that we now have.

💬 Mr SPEAKER: Leave is sought for that course of action. Is there any objection? There is no objection.

I move, That this House note the passing of Sir John Wallace KNZM, QC, former Chief Human Rights Commissioner, judge of the High Court of New Zealand, and chairman of the Royal Commission on the Electoral System, which recommended the MMP system for selecting elected members of Parliament. On behalf of New Zealand First, I wish to pay respects and to mark the passing of an eminent and distinguished New Zealander. Sir John made an outstanding contribution to public office in New Zealand in all the roles he fulfilled with distinction. As chairman of the Royal Commission on the Electoral System, which recommended the introduction of MMP, Sir John made a lasting and profound difference to our parliamentary system and democracy. We extend our condolences to Sir John’s family.

Motion agreed to.