Headlines:
| Kern Spencer’s application for leave not unprecedented |
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| Friday, 15 February 2008 | |
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Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Headley
Cunningham says Kern Spencer's announced intention to apply for leave of
absence from the house is not unprecedented. Mr. Cunningham cited at least one instance where a member applied for extended leave of absence from the House. "I know that Mr. [Florizel] Glasspole went on leave for a year but he was granted leave from the Speaker in other words all you do is ask the Speaker for leave and he grants you leave," said Mr. Cunningham. Mr. Cunningham also explained that Mr. Spencer has the right to exercise the option to take leave. Under section 81 of the Standing Orders of parliament, any member who is prevented from attending a sitting of the house must inform the Speaker in writing at the earliest possible time. He or she may apply for a leave of absence from the House; the section does not indicate a time limit on the length of any such leave. News emerged Wednesday night that Member of Parliament for North East St. Elizabeth Kern Spencer is to apply for a leave of absence from Parliament. The former Junior Minister for Energy's decision followed a meeting with senior officers of the People's National Party (PNP). The former State Minister will also take leave from all leadership positions he holds in the Party. A statement from the PNP said the Officers accepted Mr. Spencer's offer which was consistent with the recommendations of the Internal Affairs Commission. For nearly four months, Mr. Spencer has been at the centre of a scandal involving the Cuban Light Bulb Project. Things came to a head last week following the release of the Contractor-General's Report. The Contractor-General accused the former Junior Minister of unwarranted and improper ministerial intervention in the procurement process. Earlier this week Energy Minister Clive Mullings called for Mr. Spencer to be suspended from Parliament. |