Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 3:20 pm on 13 June 2018.
Thank you. Sorry. I object on the motion to call Neil Hamilton for the Commission. The role of a Commissioner goes to the core of this place—how it is run, how it plans for the future, and how it is perceived by the public. The Commission—and I quote from our website—
'has responsibility for the provision of property, staff and services to support the Assembly Members'.
One of the key words there is 'staff'. Staff are our main support. They make this place work, and, frankly, none of this would happen without them. We should value them in the way that they deserve. In fact, we should value each other in the same way.
There are many reasons why I would object to Neil Hamilton becoming a Commissioner. However, the reason I wish to put on record is that, on 16 May, Neil Hamilton abstained on the vote in support of the emerging dignity and respect policy. The main crux of his argument appeared to be that it should only apply part of the time. Becoming an Assembly Member is an honour, and it should be respected as such. It is not a part-time job. The Nolan principles and the code of conduct, which we all promised to abide by when we were sworn in, do not get shrugged off like a wet coat when they become too uncomfortable. I do not see how his position is compatible with the role of Assembly Commissioner. Thank you.