Speaker: Order, order! We might as well get started. I am sorry that our sitting today is under such disappointing but necessary circumstances, the sooner we begin, the sooner we finish. I call, for an introduction to this sitting, the Prime Minister.
Prime Minister: Thank you, Mister Speaker, and I wanted to thank the full chamber for attending this sitting today. I would like to thank you, Mister Speaker, for attending all the meetings leading up to today, for being so patient, and for making this possible.
Mister Speaker, I would like to thank my Right Honourable friend, the Deputy Prime Minister, for the motivation for today’s sitting. Today is something that has taken us a shamefully long time to deal with but I hope this sitting will provide some closure for us as a Government, a country and a party.
Mister Speaker, as hard as it is to say, I would like to thank my Right Honourable friend, the former Prime Minister, to her seat in this chamber. It can be very difficult to show your face after all these years but I am grateful that you did. Today could have gone ahead without you but you are safeguarding yours, and our dignity by being present today. I am grateful to her.
Speaker: The Deputy Prime Minister in question, Keira Pearson.
Keira Pearson: Thank you, Mister Speaker. I would like to thank my Right Honourable friend, the Prime Minister, for re-appointing me to this role, it is a role I left with heavy heart less than one month ago and the decision to return was not a hard decision. However, Mister Speaker, my return must bring about change in this party, it must be a time to stop avoiding our problems and dealing with them.
Government: Hear, hear!
Keira Pearson: Mister Speaker, this scandal was a national and international embarrassment for this country and it is, frankly, shameful that nothing was done about this at the time or in the months and years following.
Mister Speaker, at the time, I was far, far too young to sit in Parliament, I am a really young Deputy Prime Minister, however, I knew which Party I wanted to work for and I was, frankly, annoyed that my now predecessors chose to ignore this.
Mister Speaker, let’s state this as it is. This embarrassment was unconstitutional and should never have happened. The Constitution of our Republic does not permit slavery, of any form, and so legalising this policy was never on the cards. How did this happen? More to the point, how did this policy remain current for six whole months?
Mister Speaker, I have all due respect for the Right Honourable Member for Alton City East, I understand that I don’t understand, or not fully, the stresses of serving this country as Prime Minister, I have had and will now continue to see it up close as the Prime Minister continues to serve and I do get to have a bit of influence on the Prime Minister and the work he undertakes, but I feel no shame today speaking openly and directly with her and about her. At the end of the day, stressful or not, this is her fault, this was her crime.
Mister Speaker, to be extremely frank, if someone is unable to execute the office of Prime Minister legally, that person should never hold office. If someone is seen to be breaking the law in office as Prime Minister, that person should take advice and resign and if that person does not resign, Mister Speaker, that person should be removed and a new Prime Minister should be appointed. I haven’t the faintest idea why this did not happen.
Government: Hear, hear!
Speaker: Order, order. We have no set timetable for today but we do have a list of duties to undertake so the sooner we begin, quite literally, the sooner we adjourn. We are moving now to the Right Honourable Member for Alton City East for a reaction to speeches already given, Joanna Barrett.
Joanna Barrett: Thank you, Mister Speaker.
Parliament: Booo!
Speaker: Order! Order! Orderrrrrr! Remember what I said, the sooner we begin, the sooner we adjourn. The Right Honourable Member has the floor and now she must be heard. Joanna Barrett.
Joanna Barrett: Thank you, Mister Speaker. It is with a heavy heart and deep remorse that I acknowledge the unconstitutional introduction of slavery under my leadership. My actions were not only legally indefensible but also morally reprehensible.
Mister Speaker, I believed that such drastic measures were necessary to address a series of complex economic challenges facing our nation. However, in retrospect, I understand that these actions were fundamentally wrong and completely contrary to the values of freedom, dignity, and human rights that our nation stands for. There is no justification for infringing upon the fundamental rights of any individual, and I deeply regret the pain and suffering caused by this misguided policy.
Mister Speaker, as I come to terms with the enormity of my mistake, I understand that an apology alone is insufficient. I am fully prepared to accept the legal consequences and any punishment deemed appropriate by our judicial system. I have cooperated fully with ongoing investigations and have voluntarily relinquished any personal privileges that might interfere with the course of justice.
Mister Speaker, to the victims and their families, and to all those who were affected by this deplorable decision, I offer my sincerest apologies. I am committed to making amends in any way possible, including supporting initiatives aimed at restitution and reconciliation.
Mister Speaker, I hope that my public acknowledgment of this grievous error and my willingness to face the consequences will serve as a step toward healing and justice. I encourage our nation to continue upholding the principles of equality and human rights, ensuring that such an injustice never occurs again.
Speaker: Order, I thank the Right Honourable Member for her input. We have two Opposition urgent questions granted. The Leader of the Opposition, the Right Honourable Lorraine Drake.
Opposition: Hear, hear!
Leader of the Opposition: Thank you, Mister Speaker. I am sickened that I worked opposite this Member whilst she was Prime Minister.
Opposition: Hear, hear!
Leader of the Opposition: Mister Speaker, the Right Honourable Member is selfish, as in, totally selfish. She says, Mister Speaker, she is willing to comply with any consequences she has to deal with off the back of this historic error for her Administration. She was pregnant leaving office as Prime Minister. If anything serious comes from this sitting of Parliament for the Right Honourable Member, will she now regret bringing a second child into the world who she will not see grow up?
Speaker: Joanna Barrett.
Joanna Barrett: Mister Speaker, I understand the concern expressed by the Right Honourable Member. The welfare of my children is of utmost importance to me, as it is to any parent. However, I believe it is essential to separate my personal life from my public duties and responsibilities.
Mister Speaker, the decision to comply with the consequences of my actions is not one I take lightly. It reflects my commitment to accountability and the rule of law. While the prospect of facing punishment is undoubtedly difficult, I am prepared to do what is necessary to address the wrongs of my administration.
Mister Speaker, as a parent, I hope to instill in my children the values of honesty, integrity, and taking responsibility for one’s actions. Accepting the consequences of my decisions, even if it means a separation from my family, is a crucial part of upholding these values. My family and I have discussed the potential outcomes, and while it is painful to consider, we are committed to doing what is right.
Mister Speaker, I would like to assure the Right Honourable Member and this House that my actions are guided by a sense of duty to the people of this nation, including my children. I will continue to support them and be a presence in their lives to the best of my ability, regardless of the circumstances.
In closing, Mister Speaker, while I deeply regret the impact my actions may have on my family, I believe that facing the consequences is a necessary step in seeking justice and moving forward as a nation.
Speaker: The Deputy Leader of the Opposition, the Right Honourable Leo Elliott.
Deputy Leader of the Opposition: Thank you, Mister Speaker. The Right Honourable Member remains Right Honourable and remains an academic, honorary doctor. In addition to this, she’s still a member of the Modern Marxist Party. Will she return her titles and resign her seat?
Speaker: Joanna Barrett.
Joanna Barrett: Thank you, Mister Speaker. The Right Honourable Member raises a significant point regarding the titles and positions I currently hold. In light of the serious nature of the situation, I have given considerable thought to the appropriate course of action.
Mister Speaker, regarding my honorary academic titles and degrees: these honours were awarded in recognition of my contributions in various fields, separate from my political career. However, given the gravity of the circumstances and to uphold the integrity of these institutions, I am willing to voluntarily return these titles if deemed appropriate by the awarding bodies. I believe it is important to maintain the credibility and respect of academic and honorary distinctions.
Mister Speaker, as for my membership in the Modern Marxist Party and my seat in this House: I acknowledge that my actions have caused significant controversy and may have impacted the public’s trust in my ability to serve. I am currently in discussions with the Prime Minister to determine the best way forward. I am prepared to resign my seat if it is felt that this would be in the best interest of my constituents and the party.
Mister Speaker, my primary concern is to ensure that my actions, both past and present, do not hinder the progress or values of the institutions and party I have been part of. I am committed to taking responsibility and making amends in any way necessary, including stepping down from my roles if it becomes clear that this is the most appropriate course of action.
Isadora Foley: Point of Order!
Speaker: Yes! Point of Order, Isadora Foley!
Isadora Foley: Thank you, Mister Speaker. Surely it would be damaging now to the Modern Marxist Party if the Right Honourable Member did not resign her Party?
Speaker: The Honourable Member raises a point of debate, not a point of order, and that requires no response, today, from the chair. The Prime Minister.
Prime Minister: Thank you, Mister Speaker. I am grateful to the Right Honourable Member for her acknowledgement of her failure and her apology, not just to her colleagues in the Government but to her colleagues in this House and the nation whom she let down.
Mister Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I bring this matter before the House. As members of the Modern Marxist Party, we are all bound by a shared commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards and principles. In light of recent events and the serious constitutional breaches under the leadership of the former Prime Minister, Joanna Barrett, we must take decisive action to maintain the integrity of our party and its values. Therefore, I propose that we initiate the process to formally remove the Right Honourable Member from our party.
Mister Speaker, our party has always stood firmly on the principles of equality, justice, and the sanctity of human rights. The actions taken by the former Prime Minister, Joanna Barrett, in unconstitutionally introducing slavery, represent a profound departure from these values. The party’s foundation is built on the belief that every individual deserves dignity and freedom. By enacting policies that infringed upon these basic human rights, Ms. Barrett has betrayed the trust that the party and the public placed in her. Such actions are incompatible with the core beliefs of our party and cannot be condoned.
Mister Speaker, the introduction of slavery under the former Prime Minister’s leadership was not only morally indefensible but also legally untenable. This policy directly violated the constitution and the laws that protect the rights and freedoms of all citizens. The repercussions of this decision have not only tarnished our party’s reputation but have also exposed the government to potential legal actions, both domestically and internationally. As a party that upholds the rule of law, we cannot have a member, particularly one who has held such a high office, act in contravention of these laws without facing consequences.
Mister Speaker, the public entrusts us with the responsibility to govern with integrity and to uphold justice. The actions of Ms. Barrett have severely undermined public confidence in our party and the government. The outcry from our constituents and the broader public demonstrates the profound disappointment and loss of trust resulting from these actions. For the party to retain its credibility and to assure the public that we are committed to our principles, we must take decisive action. Allowing Ms. Barrett to remain in the party without accountability would send a message that we tolerate serious ethical breaches, which is wholly unacceptable.
Mister Speaker, the evidence presented underscores that the former Prime Minister’s actions were a severe breach of party values, had significant legal implications, and have damaged public trust. Therefore, I stand before this House to propose that we take the necessary steps to remove Joanna Barrett from the party. This action, though difficult, is essential to uphold the integrity of our party and to demonstrate our unwavering commitment to justice and accountability.
Speaker: Order, order. I am grateful to the Prime Minister. Minister to move.
Minister: Mister Speaker, the question is that the Right Honourable Member be removed from the Modern Marxist Party, I beg to move.
Speaker: The question is that the Right Honourable Member be removed from the Modern Marxist Party. As many as are of that opinion, say aye.
Majority: Aye.
Speaker: On the contrary, no.
Minority: No.
Speaker: Division. The Clerk.
Clerk: The ayes to the right, 169, the nos to the left, 72.
Speaker: Thank you! The ayes to the right, 169, the nos to the left, 72, so the ayes have it, the ayes have it. Unlock. The Prime Minister.
Prime Minister: Mister Speaker, after careful deliberation and consideration of the evidence, I hereby formally announce that Joanna Barrett is removed from the membership of the Modern Marxist Party, effective immediately.
Government: Hear, hear!
Speaker: Order, order. Minister to move.
Minister: Mister Speaker, the question is that the Right Honourable Member be required to give up her Parliamentary title. I beg to move.
Speaker: The question is that the Right Honourable Member be required to give up her Parliamentary title. As many as are of that opinion, say aye.
Minority: Aye.
Speaker: On the contrary, no.
Bigger Minority: No.
Speaker: Division. The Clerk.
Clerk: The ayes to the right, 51, the nos to the left, 68.
Speaker: Thank you! The ayes to the right, 51, the nos to the left, 68, so the nos have it, the nos have it. Unlock. The matter of the Right Honourable Member’s doctorate should be for academic and personal consideration and shall not, obviously, be voted on by the House. Order. All actions have been taken, all evidence has been presented. We shall now have a short adjournment debate. Alix Langley.
Alix Langley: Thank you, Mister Speaker. I rise to address a matter of utmost gravity and concern—the constitutional breaches that occurred under the former Prime Minister’s administration, specifically relating to the unlawful reintroduction of slavery. This represents a profound violation of our nation’s core principles and legal foundations, and it is imperative that we examine these breaches thoroughly.
First and foremost, let us identify the specific constitutional provisions that were blatantly violated. Our constitution unequivocally prohibits slavery and any form of involuntary servitude. These are not just legal technicalities; they are fundamental rights that form the bedrock of our democratic society. The provisions enshrined in our constitution safeguard the basic human rights and freedoms of every individual, ensuring that no one is subjected to forced labor or exploitation against their will.
Moreover, our national legal framework, including specific statutes criminalising slavery and human trafficking, was also disregarded. These laws, reinforced by our commitments under international treaties such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, are designed to protect individuals from the very abuses that were perpetrated. The actions taken by the former Prime Minister, Joanna Barrett, starkly contravened these laws, effectively undermining the protections they were meant to provide.
The policies enacted under her leadership facilitated a system of forced labour, stripping individuals of their autonomy and subjecting them to inhumane conditions. This not only represented a clear deviation from the legal standards set forth in our constitution and laws but also constituted a gross abuse of power.
Joanna Barrett: Give way!
Speaker: Does the Honourable Member wish to give way?
Alix Langley: Mister Speaker, I am happy to give way.
Speaker: Joanna Barrett.
Joanna Barrett: Thank you, Mister Speaker. The Honourable Member referenced my policies whilst in office as Prime Minister, I wish to correct the record that this was one policy, not multiple.
Speaker: Yea, indeed, we do need to be careful with our language, we can inadvertently make issues even more serious. Alix Langley.
Alix Langley: I apologise for my error, Mister Speaker. It is critical to understand the full extent of this deviation. The former Prime Minister’s policy did not merely challenge legal norms—it dismantled them. By instituting practices that are fundamentally at odds with our nation’s values, the actions of the former administration have set a dangerous precedent, one that threatens the rule of law itself. We cannot allow such violations to go unchallenged or unpunished.
Mister Speaker, the repercussions of these breaches extend far beyond our borders. Our international reputation has been tarnished, and we face potential diplomatic and legal consequences. We have international obligations to uphold, and failure to do so risks not only sanctions but also the loss of standing on the global stage.
Mister Speaker, this House must not only hold the former Prime Minister accountable but also take steps to prevent such transgressions in the future. We need to ensure that our constitutional and legal safeguards are robust and that they are respected by all, regardless of position or power. Let us reaffirm our commitment to justice, human rights, and the rule of law, and work together to restore the trust and integrity that have been so gravely undermined.
Speaker: Lexie Hernandez.
Lexie Hernandez: Thank you, Mister Speaker. Today, we face the difficult task of addressing the personal legal consequences that may arise for the former Prime Minister, Joanna Barrett, following the unconstitutional actions taken under her leadership. The introduction of slavery not only breached our nation’s fundamental laws but also constituted a grave violation of human rights. It is imperative that we consider the legal ramifications, as well as the broader implications for her political career and any official honours or positions she continues to hold.
Mister Speaker, let us consider the potential charges that could be brought against Ms. Barrett. The reintroduction of slavery is a severe criminal offense under our national laws, which categorically prohibit any form of forced labour or servitude. As such, Ms. Barrett may face charges related to human trafficking, illegal imprisonment, and other offenses that fall under the umbrella of crimes against humanity. These are serious allegations that carry significant penalties, including substantial fines and lengthy imprisonment.
Mister Speaker, the legal proceedings that will likely follow are essential not only for delivering justice but also for upholding the rule of law. It is crucial that these proceedings are conducted transparently and fairly, ensuring that Ms. Barrett receives a fair trial while also holding her accountable for her actions. This process is vital in demonstrating our commitment to justice and ensuring that no individual, regardless of rank or status, is above the law.
Mister Speaker, beyond the immediate legal consequences, we must also consider the implications for Ms. Barrett’s political career. The gravity of these actions has understandably led to a loss of trust and credibility, both within her own party and among the general public. As such, it is expected that Ms. Barrett will face not only expulsion from the party but also disqualification from holding public office in the future. This is a necessary step to preserve the integrity of our political institutions and to signal that such breaches of trust and ethical standards are intolerable.
Mister Speaker, there is the matter of any official honours or positions that Ms. Barrett may still hold. Given the serious nature of her actions, it is appropriate to review and potentially revoke these honours. This would include academic titles, honorary doctorates, and any other accolades that have been awarded in recognition of public service or leadership. The withdrawal of such honours serves as a formal acknowledgment that her actions are incompatible with the values they represent.
Mister Speaker, the path forward is clear. We must ensure that justice is served, not out of vengeance, but to uphold the principles of accountability and the rule of law. The consequences faced by Ms. Barrett is a reminder that leadership comes with great responsibility and that those who violate the trust placed in them by the public must be held to account.
Mister Speaker, I urge my colleagues and the public to remain steadfast in our commitment to justice, fairness, and the rule of law. Let us proceed with the necessary legal processes, and ensure that all actions taken are in the best interest of our nation and its values.
Speaker: Lex Odling.
Lex Odling: Thank you, Mister Speaker. The unlawful reintroduction of slavery is not only a national disgrace but also a potential catalyst for significant legal and reputational consequences on both domestic and international fronts.
Mister Speaker, it is crucial to acknowledge that the government’s endorsement or failure to prevent such unconstitutional policies places the entire administration under scrutiny. The introduction of slavery represents a gross violation of human rights, breaching both our constitution and international obligations. Our country is a signatory to numerous human rights treaties, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. These agreements obligate us to uphold and protect fundamental freedoms and human dignity. By failing to do so, we risk facing international condemnation, diplomatic isolation, and potential sanctions.
Mister Speaker, the government must be prepared for legal repercussions. These could include cases brought before international courts, such as the World Forum, where the country could be held accountable for crimes against humanity. Such proceedings would not only damage our international standing but could also lead to punitive measures that affect our economic and political relations globally.
Mister Speaker, in light of these challenges, it is imperative that we use this unfortunate episode as an opportunity for introspection and reform. Our legal and constitutional safeguards must be scrutinised to identify and close any loopholes that allowed these actions to occur. We must ask ourselves how such a severe breach could happen under the watch of an administration supposedly committed to upholding the law.
Mister Speaker, one area for immediate reform is the strengthening of oversight mechanisms. We need to ensure that no single office, including that of the Prime Minister, holds unchecked power that could lead to the erosion of fundamental rights. This may involve enhancing the powers and independence of judicial and legislative bodies to review and check executive actions rigorously. Additionally, establishing a more transparent and robust process for policy review, particularly on issues that impact human rights, is essential.
Mister Speaker, another critical area is public and civil servant education. There must be a renewed focus on educating government officials and the public about constitutional rights and human rights obligations. This will foster a culture of accountability and ensure that any deviation from established laws and norms is promptly identified and addressed.
Mister Speaker, while the actions of the former Prime Minister have undoubtedly cast a shadow over our nation, we have the opportunity to emerge stronger and more resilient. By acknowledging our shortcomings and committing to comprehensive reforms, we can restore our reputation and ensure that such violations never occur again.
Mister Speaker, I call on my colleagues across all parties to work collaboratively towards these reforms. Let us reaffirm our commitment to justice, human rights, and the rule of law, and show the world that we are a nation that learns from its mistakes and strives for a better future for all its citizens.
Parliament: Hear, hear!
Speaker: Order! Zayyan Naim!
Zayyan Naim: Thank you, Mister Speaker. I believe it is crucial to address the fundamental issues that have arisen from the recent actions of the former Prime Minister. The introduction of slavery, an act so clearly in violation of our fundamental rights, highlights significant gaps in our legal framework and oversight mechanisms. It is imperative that we take this opportunity to undertake comprehensive reforms to prevent such breaches from occurring in the future.
Mister Speaker, we must consider updating existing laws to ensure they are aligned with the highest standards of human rights protection. Our current legislation must be thoroughly reviewed and revised where necessary. This includes reinforcing provisions that unequivocally prohibit slavery and any form of involuntary servitude, ensuring they are explicit and leave no room for interpretation. Furthermore, we should consider creating new legislation that addresses contemporary forms of exploitation that may not have been fully anticipated in our existing laws. This would include robust protections against human trafficking, forced labour, and any other violations of personal freedom.
Mister Speaker, in addition to strengthening legal protections, it is essential to enhance the powers and independence of oversight bodies. Bodies such as human rights commissions, ombudsmen, and independent judicial review panels must be empowered to act decisively and without political interference. They should have the authority to investigate, report, and take action against violations of human rights, ensuring that all branches of government are held accountable. This would include granting these bodies the power to challenge any government actions that threaten fundamental rights, providing a crucial check against potential abuses of power.
Mister Speaker, we must prioritise the education and training of public officials. It is clear that a comprehensive understanding of constitutional limits and human rights obligations is not uniformly present among those in positions of authority. By instituting mandatory training programs on constitutional law and human rights for all public officials, we can foster a deeper respect for these principles within our institutions. This education should not only cover legal obligations but also the ethical responsibilities that come with public service. It is vital that every public servant, from the highest echelons of government to the grassroots level, understands the importance of protecting and upholding the rights of all individuals.
Mister Speaker, while the actions of the former Prime Minister have undoubtedly caused distress and outrage, they also present an opportunity for growth and improvement. By undertaking these reforms, we can strengthen our commitment to justice and human dignity, ensuring that our legal and institutional frameworks are robust enough to protect fundamental rights against any future threats.
Mister Speaker, I urge this House to support the necessary legislative updates, the empowerment of oversight bodies, and the implementation of comprehensive training programs for public officials. Let us work together to build a society where the rights and freedoms of every individual are safeguarded with the utmost vigilance and integrity.
Speaker: Order, Minister to move.
Minister: Mister Speaker, the question is that this House do now adjourn. I beg to move.
Speaker: Order! The question is that this House do now adjourn, as many as are of that opinion, say aye.
Vast Majority: Aye!
Speaker: On the contrary, no.
Vast Minority: No!
Speaker: I think the ayes have it, the ayes have it. Order, order.