Urgent Debates Declined — Courts—Tony Robertson Trial

I have received a letter from Mahesh Bindra seeking to debate under Standing Order 389 the full details of murderer Tony Robertson coming to light in his recent trial. In order for an urgent debate to be held there must be a particular case of recent occurrence involving ministerial responsibility. There is no ministerial responsibility for the details of Tony Robertson in the crimes of which he has been convicted. Furthermore, the matter is before the courts. Sentencing is scheduled for 6 August. It is important that this House takes account of the constitutional relationship of mutual respect that exists between the legislative and judicial branches of government, and the risk of prejudicing a matter awaiting adjudication. The application is therefore declined.