The Canberra Liberals have nominated Jeremy Hanson as the next speaker of the Legislative Assembly, following his resignation as deputy opposition leader on Monday. Mark Parton, the Liberals' leader, announced the decision after the first full party room meeting since the leadership change.
However, Labor and the Greens have not immediately backed the nomination, citing concerns about Mr Hanson's impartiality. Chief Minister Andrew Barr compared the move to Tony Abbott nominating Bronwyn Bishop as federal speaker, stating that Mr Hanson has been a highly partisan operator throughout his career.
Mr Hanson will need the support of the Assembly to assume the role. The Legislative Assembly next sits on December 2, when a vote on the position will be taken before any other business can be considered. Labor said it will consult with other members and remains open to considering other nominees.
A Greens spokesman said the party is actively considering its support, noting Mr Hanson's record raises concerns about his capacity to act impartially. The spokesman emphasized that the Greens will base their decision on merit and the ability to foster constructive debate.
According to the companion to the Legislative Assembly's standing orders, the speaker must be independent from day-to-day politics and place the interests of the parliament above those of any party.
