Privilege — Conduct of Member—Hon Julie Anne Genter

As notified to the House last Thursday, I have received letters from the Hon Scott Simpson and Todd Stephenson raising a matter of privilege relating to the Julie Anne Genter conduct towards Matt Doocey during the committee stage of the Appropriation (2022/23 Confirmation and Validation) Bill on 1 May 2024. The conduct complained of could amount to threatening or intimidating a member acting in the discharge of their duty, or threatening a member on account of their conduct in Parliament—see Standing Orders 418(m) and (w), and McGee, section 59.9. The Speaker does not inquire into the veracity of the evidence presented or conduct an inquiry into the allegations. That’s the role of the Privileges Committee. The Speaker’s role in such matters is to determine whether the facts alleged could amount to a breach of privilege or a contempt of the House. Accordingly, I find that a question of privilege does arise, and that question stands referred to the Privileges Committee.