English Language Bill
Thank you, Mr Chair. Although this is quite a short clause, I do want to check one question. I guess in some ways it is somewhat philosophical in nature, but I want to check: in this case, when we’re referring to binding the Crown, which we do see in many other pieces of legislation, what then would the Crown encompass in this case? For example, the Crown over here, in general, we’re looking at, you know, Parliament, we’re looking at the Public Service, we’re looking at anything that is under the auspices of the Crown. But, for example, as we see with other official languages, there will be members of the public who, for various reasons, would not acknowledge other official languages. I guess the question is: what happens in a situation where, then, people in the public do not acknowledge English as an official language? Would they be considered part of the Crown?
A party vote was called for on the question, That clause 4 be agreed to.
Ayes 101
New Zealand National 48; New Zealand Labour 34; ACT New Zealand 11; New Zealand First 8.
Noes 20
Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand 14; Te Pāti Māori 4; Ferris; Kapa-Kingi.
Clause 4 agreed to.
Committee of the whole House
Clause 5 English is an official language of New Zealand
CHAIRPERSON (Teanau Tuiono): We now come to clause 5. This is the debate on clause 5, “English is an official language of New Zealand”. The question is that clause 5 stand part.