Ministerial statement on Canterbury earthquake

In an unusual move, question time was put aside on Tuesday. The Prime Minister, the Rt Hon John Key, made a ministerial statement about the severe earthquake in Canterbury in the early hours of 4 September. The statement was followed by speeches from other party leaders. The parties by agreement did not lodge questions.

The 15 members of Parliament with offices in Canterbury have been given leave by Parliament – their votes will still be able to be cast – so that they can assist constituents and deal with their own homes and offices. Where necessary, alternative contact arrangements have been established to allow constituents to contact the MPs. A team from Parliamentary Service has been sent to Christchurch to assist members and 35 out-of-Parliament staff in the worst affected areas.