Business Statement

Thank you, Mr Speaker. Today, the House will adjourn until Tuesday, 9 April, and can I wish everyone a happy Easter. In that week, the House will consider the first reading of Te Pire Whakatupua mō Te Kāhui Tupua/Taranaki Maunga Collective Redress Bill, the second reading of the Ngāti Hei Claims Settlement Bill, and the third reading of the Misuse of Drugs (Pseudoephedrine) Amendment Bill.

On Tuesday, there will be a 90-minute debate on local issues. Wednesday will be a members’ day, and on Thursday we will have all remaining stages of the Ngā Hapū o Ngāti Ranginui Claims Settlement Bill, as per a determination of the Business Committee.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. Given the Minister’s previous enthusiasm on the progress of the Kermadec Ocean Sanctuary Bill, does he have any plans to introduce a replacement now that the Government has scrapped it?

If the member reads the Order Paper, he will see that the Kermadec Ocean Sanctuary Bill is no longer on the Order Paper.

Mr Speaker, perhaps I can repeat my question?

💬 SPEAKER: Well, you can, but you’re supposed to be asking questions about what’s on the Order Paper, not what’s off it; however, go ahead.

This has never been that type of process, Mr Speaker.

💬 SPEAKER: Oh, I know, but I’m a bit of a stickler for the rules, as you require of me so often. So, please, ask your question.

OK, no worries. In regards to the Order Paper and what might soon be on it, will there be a replacement for the Kermadec Ocean Sanctuary Bill?

Well, as the member knows from his time in Government, the Government intention to progress bills is announced in due course, and when they make their way on to the Order Paper, they get reflected on the Order Paper.