Tonga set to be first ‘electronic parliament’

Tonga set to be first ‘electronic parliament’

May 20, 2011 - The Tongan government has announced that it would be the first ‘electronic parliament’ in the world. This is being made possible because China has donated 30 new Dell laptop PCs to the legislature.

“Tonga will soon be the first ever electronic parliament in the world, and will be a platform for greater transparency,” Parliament Speaker Lord Lasike, said last week.

According to him this availability of the technology would help make Members of Parliament more accountable while also putting them directly in touch with the people of their constituencies. “They can instantly chat with their constituents during the sessions,” he said. The laptops will be used in the House by all members of Parliament.

As well as having the first electronic parliament, Tonga also boasts of the highest per capita incidence of PhDs – though most Tongans with that coveted qualification live outside Tonga.

ENDS

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