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Speaker drama continues: Paula Bennett kicked out of the House

Author
NZ Herald,
Publish Date
Thu, 24 May 2018, 2:51PM
The conflict between Speaker Trevor Mallard and Paula Bennett continues (Photo / NZ Herald)
The conflict between Speaker Trevor Mallard and Paula Bennett continues (Photo / NZ Herald)

Speaker drama continues: Paula Bennett kicked out of the House

Author
NZ Herald,
Publish Date
Thu, 24 May 2018, 2:51PM

Deputy National leader Paula Bennett has been kicked out of the debating chamber after another argument with Speaker Trevor Mallard.

It is the latest chapter in her party's protest over Mallard's handling over Question Time.

She left the House voluntarily yesterday after becoming frustrated with Mallard's rulings.

But today she was told to leave by the Speaker after a prolonged argument with several National MPs.

It began when Gerry Brownlee took exception to yesterday's events and several of the Speakers rulings. 

When Brownlee said: "Simply requiring members to withdraw and apologise without information is the reason for that", the Speaker became visibly annoyed.

"Mr Brownlee, this has got to the point of being ridiculous." 

This caused several National MPs, including Bennett, to cry out.

It was at this point that Bennett was asked to leave.

Earlier, Mallard threatened to name National MP David Bennett when he initially hesitated to apologise for a remark he made about one of his rulings.

"I'm not having a point of order Mr Bennett, your either going to have a withdraw and apologise or I will name you."

That is a more serious sanction than being removed from the House, as it can lead to an MP being suspended and losing their voting rights.

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