FLP's Response to Mick Beddoes

[posted 28 Sept. 2004, 13:30]

19 August 2004

MEDIA RELEASE

FLP's response to Opposition Leader, Mick Beddoes on the Speakers Ruling - Public Accounts Committee

Fiji Labour Party has called on the Opposition Leader to display more maturity and to desist from unnecessarily maligning FLP with regard to the Speakers ruling on Public Accounts Committee.

In a statement today, FLP parliamentary leader Mahendra Chaudhry said that Mr Beddoes is attempting to drag FLP into the ongoing controversy between him and the Speaker.

Mr Chaudhry said that "despite explaining the issue to Mr Beddoes in his letter yesterday, he is disappointed with Mr Beddoes for continuing his ranting in the media which has become somewhat obnoxious."

FLP reiterates that in any case the Public Accounts Committee should be allowed to carry out is designated functions so that the government accounts for the last two years can be accordingly scrutinized. Mr Beddoes should refrain from creating controversies and think of the welfare of the nation's taxpayers who deserve accountability and transparency from the government regarding the use of their money.

Hon. Poseci Bune is a qualified, experienced and an accredited professional whose chairmanship would ensure that the Committee proceeds with its work with due urgency.

"I urge Mr Beddoes to either accept the Speakers ruling or address his qualms in an appropriate manner instead of sensationalizing the issue through the media if he is really serious about transparency and accountability."

The Committee must get on with the job said Mr Chaudhry