📢 Sir Alden McLaughlin urges MPs to be concise in budget debate

As the newly appointed Speaker of the House, Sir Alden McLaughlin, initiated the budget debate proceedings in parliament, he emphasized the need for efficiency and brevity. He stated that the House would start and resume on time, irrespective of the presence or absence of members, and that breaks would be kept to a minimum. McLaughlin also cautioned MPs against lengthy speeches, urging them to convey their points quickly and effectively. 🏛️

McLaughlin, who opted for a regular business suit over the traditional speaker's costume, highlighted the urgency of completing the budget work before Christmas. He warned MPs that in a world with limited attention spans, lengthy and irrelevant speeches would result in people tuning them out. The Speaker urged MPs to quickly progress through the debate, reminding them that their audience's attention and patience are finite. 🕰️

The MPs were expected to respond to the governor’s Throne Speech, the premier’s Policy Statement, and the Budget Address. Opposition Leader Roy McTaggart initiated the debate with his response, also sending his best wishes to former premier Wayne Panton, who is currently absent due to a recent accident. 📜