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By: Felix Marwick | Latest Political News | Wednesday October 24 2012 12:16
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Parliament's most senior official is saying no to Green MP Holly Walker's lobbyist Bill. The legislation would require more disclosure and the creation of a register showing who had lobbied MPs. But the Clerk of the House, Mary Harris, says she doesn't see the need for such legislation and has concerns about how it would affect the operation of Parliament. She warns the effect could be chilling. Ms Harris isn't sure lobbying is such a growth industry that legislation is needed at this time.
And she points out the bill actually includes Parliamentary staff as lobbyists. Ms Harris also says it'd blur the separation between Parliament and the Courts as the Courts could be dragged in to examining Parliamentary procedures. |
Related Subjects
Holly Walker | Lobbyist |