Mr Speaker ‘forced’ to sit

Press, 29 May 1985, Page 8

Mr Speaker ‘forced’ to sit

PA Wellington Parliament’s "house doctor” became its Speaker yesterday. Dr Gerald Wall, aged 64, was elected in a 24-minute sitting by his Parliamentary colleagues with 140 visitors, including his wife Ururaupo and two of the Dr and Mrs Wall’s five children. His appointment was formally approved later by the Governor-General, Sir David Beattie, at Government House.

Dr Wall, a Labour mem-

ber of Parliament for 16 years, had already straightened out more than a few members in his - unofficial role as "house doctor” at Parliament, the Senior Government Whip, Dr Michael Cullen, said in a lighthearted speech.

Dr Wall was elected to succeed Sir Basil Arthur, who died on May 1 while convalescing from surgery.

Dr Wall was escorted — with the traditional show of reluctance by new Speakers — to the Speaker’s dias in

the debating chamber, with the two Government Whips gripping his elbows.

The Leader of the Opposition, Mr McLay, assured Dr Wall that he took office with the support of the Opposition because of his experience as a Parliamentarian and qualities of judgment, understanding, and intergrity.

Dr Wall’s nomination was moved by Dr Cullen and seconded by the Government’s Junior Whip, Ms Fran Wilde.

The Sergeant-at-Arms, Wing-Commander Bob McKay, returned the ceremonial mace to its place in the Chamber, signifying the presence of the Speaker in the chamber, and the Leader of the House, Mr Palmer, congratulated Dr Wall on his election. No formal vote was held. Congratulations were also given by Mr McLay, on behalf of the National Opposition and by Mr N. J. Morrison, (Socred, Pakuranga,) on behalf of the Social Credit Party.