Clarification by Member

Thank you, Mdm Deputy Speaker. My speech earlier should not be construed as casting aspersions on the Police. That was not my intention and should not be interpreted as such. The Police is part of the solution and not the problem. I raised the example because it was my experience with a survivor. The episode I raised in my speech took place three years ago and I have been unsuccessful in getting in touch with them.

I believe that given the topic at hand, consent is imperative, not least to avoid re-victimisation. I will communicate directly with MHA on any episode in the future where a survivor believes she has been processed inappropriately by the Police, even as I will try my best to maintain my relationship of confidentiality with the victim.

Leader.

Mdm Deputy Speaker, I thank the Member for her clarification. I just wanted to take this opportunity to remind all Members of the House that the law confers on Members of Parliament privilege in the House and immunity, which means that it must be exercised responsibly.

And I just wanted to remind Members of the House that when assertions and allegations are made, Members must be prepared to substantiate them. This is just a reminder to Members so that in future they will understand, if they make an assertion, they may be called upon to substantiate it, especially if an assertion is made against an agency which is not in a position to defend itself.