Business Statement

Mr Wilson—ah, Mr Speaker, may I—

💬 Mr SPEAKER: Not yet.

We all know who the boss is! May I first congratulate Mr Wilson on his appointment. It did sound a little bit like a sentence, the way you read it out, but I am sure the 7 years will pass successfully and that he will grow into the role of Clerk, continuing a long history of excellent Clerks who have provided service to this House in the past. I am sure we will have occasion to farewell our existing Clerk when her appointment finally comes to an end.

When the House resumes on Tuesday, 19 May the Government will look to progress a number of bills, including the New Zealand Superannuation and Retirement Income Amendment Bill and the Waitangi National Trust Board Amendment Bill. Thursday, 21 May will be Budget day.

Can I simply add to the Leader of the House’s acknowledgment of the new Clerk of the House and the departing Clerk of the House and wish both of them well. We certainly recognise the importance of the role of the Office of the Clerk as an impartial adjudicator in the proceedings of the House and ensuring that the House continues to run smoothly, despite whatever attempts we may make to thwart that. We acknowledge that the Clerk has a very important role in making sure that this House and the authority of this House is respected and upheld.