Speaker’s Statements — New Zealand Hansard—150th Anniversary

Members, this month marks 150 years since the establishment of the New Zealand Hansard, the record of parliamentary debates. As one of the earliest parliaments to establish a Hansard service independent of the executive, New Zealand has a longstanding tradition of providing a transparent record of parliamentary proceedings. This plays a valuable role in making the work of this House accessible to all New Zealanders. I note that 2017 is also the 20th anniversary of the Hansard including speeches delivered in Te Reo Māori, along with their translations. I am sure members would wish to acknowledge this occasion.

[Applause]