“The behaviour of Tau Henare in denying leave for Trevor Mallard to speak in a special debate because he is not Maori, is deplorable racism”, New Zealand First MP, Brian Donnelly, claimed today.

The House had just given leave to Sandra Lee and Alamein Kopu to speak on the use of Maori language in Parliament, even though time was up for the debate.

When leave was asked for Mr Mallard to speak, and he had been seeking a call for some time, Tau Henare declined the leave, stating to Mr Mallard “Because you are not a Maori”.

“I have never before experienced a decision being based upon the race of a member of Parliament”, Mr Donnelly said.

“Mr Henare’s behaviour was disgraceful. He has plunged Parliament to a new low.”

ENDS

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