The Government has announced the postponement of this week’s Parliament sitting programme in the wake of a national state of emergency being declared.
“This an unprecedented storm which is affecting people and property across much of the North Island,” said Minister, Grant Robertson.
He said Government Ministers and MPs from all political parties will instead be focussed on assisting their communities.
The House met briefly today at 2pm to consider a motion on the earthquake in Turkey and Syria, before the Minister for Emergency Management delivered a statement on the declaration of a state of national emergency.
“I will then move a motion for Parliament to adjourn until Tuesday February 21. That week will follow what was the original plan for this week. The House will begin with the Prime Minister’s statement and debate. Wednesday will be the first day of oral questions,” Mr Robertson said.
Select committees can continue to meet this week if they are able to do so remotely, he said.
