After calling for change, Independent member Paul Lane is now calling for a re-vote on the Mitchelmore Report.
As first reported, Lane says he was advised by the Clerk of the House that under the Standing Orders, any Member sitting in the House is required to vote. Lane says he was since advised by the Clerk’s Office that there is a current provision in the Standing Orders that has to apply in this scenario.
Standing Order 20 – Pecuniary (or related to money) Interest states that no Member is entitled to vote upon any question in which they have a direct monetary interest or award.
Lane states that clearly, Mitchelmore voting on a matter that would see him pay a financial penalty fits the definition of “pecuniary interest”.
The independent member has written the Speaker of the House, Scott Reid, asking for a ruling on this matter and requested a re-vote when the House reconvenes for the Spring Session.
Earlier Story
An Independent member in the House of Assembly is looking for change following the aftermath of the Mitchelmore Report.
MHA for Mount Pearl-Southlands Paul Lane says since the vote on Mitchelmore’s punishment that saw him suspended from the House for two-weeks without pay and written apologies, he’s had a number of citizens reach out to raise concerns on how a Member of the House can vote on their own punishment, and how it’s somehow not a conflict of interest.
Lane says he was advised by the Clerk of the House that under the Standing Orders, any Member sitting in the House is required to vote. A Member in this situation could voluntarily leave the House when the vote is called, but that’s up to them.
Lane states although he does believe any Member should have the right to participate in debate to give their perspective or defend their actions, he doesn’t believe its appropriate to vote on the sanction.
Lane is now requesting that the Standing Orders Committee review the Standing Orders with a view of making the appropriate amendment which may be needed to eliminate what Lane calls, this clear conflict of interest.
