Speaker rules against Kamla; PM won't face privileges committee

The Speaker of the House of Representatives ruled Friday that Prime Minister Patrick Manning would not have to face Parliament's disciplinary committee with regard to a statement Manning made about Siparia MP Kamla Persad-Bissessasr in the House on February 19.

Manning claimed Persad-Bissessar bought a store in San Fernando “under conditions” that appeared dubious. The UNC leader said Manning deliberately misled the Parliament and should answer to the disciplinary body.

But Barry Sinanan disagreed. He stated, “I am not satisfied that a prima facie case of breach of privilege has been made out.”

Manning's statement, he said, “does not constitute a prima facie case of breach of privilege warranting its referral to the Committee of Privileges.”

All MPs are expected to exercise the privilege of freedom of speech in Parliament, and its corresponding duties, responsibly, he declared.