Urgent Debates Declined — Te Reo Māori—Removal from Matariki Invitation

I have received an urgent debate letter from the Hon Willie Jackson seeking to debate under Standing Order 399 the removal of te reo Māori from an invitation to Matariki celebrations from the Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage. This is a particular case of recent occurrence for which there is ministerial responsibility. The big hurdle, however, for applications for urgent debate is whether the issue raised warrants setting aside the business of the House. This application does not meet that threshold. The application is declined.