Majersky: Proposed Changes to House's Rules of Procedure Aim to Limit Criticism

Bratislava, 26 January (TASR) - The proposed changes to Parliament's Rules of Procedure are not aimed at creating a more civilised Parliament, but at limiting criticism, stated leader of the opposition Christian Democrats (KDH) Milan Majersky on Monday, adding that his party supports order and civilised debate, but not at the cost of silencing dissent. "Slovakia doesn't need more silence, but more truth. The government claims that it wants to pass laws for the people, but it itself blocks meetings with dysfunctional proposals, by scrapping functional offices, and passes laws tailored to its politicians. New rules will only replace chaos if there is a will to act fairly," stated Majersky, noting that KDH will comment on the proposal after studying its final wording. Earlier on Monday, House Chair Richard Rasi (Voice-SD) presented a draft amendment of Parliament's Rules of Procedure, setting a maximum time of 37.5 hours for all parliamentary caucuses to discuss each item on the agenda; although this period will be doubled in the case of debates on the state budget and the government manifesto. For MPs, a code of ethics should be introduced, along with an obligation to wear 'appropriate attire'. If this is violated, an MP may be expelled from the chamber. The amendment to the Rules of Procedure will be the first point on the agenda of the parliamentary session which is due to begin on Tuesday (27 January). am