NZ MPs join parliamentarians to ensure a relevant Commonwealth for the future

7 September 2012

A New Zealand parliamentary delegation will join over 600 MPs from across the Commonwealth for the 58th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) conference, being hosted by the Sri Lankan Parliament in Colombo from 10 to 15 September 2010.

Under the conference theme of “Ensuring a relevant Commonwealth for the future” participants will explore topics such as whether the Commonwealth should establish a Commissioner for democracy, the rule of law and human rights, tackling youth unemployment and ensuring adequate parliamentary scrutiny of Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs.

Hon Annette King MP, will lead the delegation which includes Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi MP, and Le'aufa'amulia Asenati Lole-Taylor MP. Moana Mackey MP, will also attend, representing the Pacific region on the Executive Committee of the CPA.

Le'aufa'amulia Asenati Lole-Taylor will represent the Pacific region at a Steering Committee Meeting for the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) and will be joined by Hon Annette King and Moana Mackey at a general meeting of the CWP.

The Speaker, Dr The Rt Hon Lockwood Smith, said the CPA conference was an opportunity for New Zealand parliamentarians to strengthen relationships with their peers throughout the Commonwealth.

“The CPA is a network of parliamentarians representing 30 per cent of the world’s population who share a commitment to strengthening the institution of Parliament.
“New Zealand has a strong voice among Commonwealth Parliaments and has been closely involved in assisting smaller and emerging parliaments become accountable and more effective,” he said.

ENDS

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