Singapore Parliament: New Deputy Speaker Xie Yao Quan says role will not mean speaking up less

Key Concepts

• Deputy Speaker role
• Parliamentary proceedings
• Impartiality in the chair
• Balancing fresh perspectives and experience
• Representation of constituents
• Speaking up on issues of concern

Appointment as Deputy Speaker and Parliamentary Refreshment

Newly appointed Deputy Speaker, Mr. Sawen, states that his new role will not diminish his voice in the House. He views his appointment as a signal of a refreshed parliament, emphasizing that it reflects the current composition of Parliament, which includes a record 32 new Members of Parliament (MPs). Mr. Sawen believes this composition offers a "very good balance" between "fresh perspectives and experience" and the "gravitas from the more senior members of parliament." He sees his own appointment, as a relatively newer MP in his second term, as an extension of this reflection.

Role and Responsibilities of Deputy Speakers

Mr. Sawen will collaborate with Speaker Syinping and Deputy Speaker Christopher Duza. Deputy Speakers are tasked with assisting the Speaker in overseeing parliamentary proceedings and stepping in when the Speaker is absent. A key distinction from the Speaker's role is that Deputy Speakers must balance their time between presiding in the chair and fulfilling their duties as backbench MPs.

Impartiality and Fair Presiding

Addressing the potential perception of bias as a government MP from the PAP, Mr. Sawen asserts that assuming the chair necessitates complete impartiality. The "essential requirement of that role is to be completely impartial and to preside over proceedings in a fair and balanced manner." A significant aspect of this involves dedicating "sufficient time and space for for an issue to be or for a matter to be ventilated."

Continued Voice in Debates

Regarding whether the Deputy Speaker role entails speaking up less in debates, Mr. Sawen does not believe this will be the case. He reflects on his first term as a parliamentarian, acknowledging that while he may not have filed the most questions or spoken on the most bills or motions, he prioritizes speaking on "issues that are close to my heart" and those that his constituents "care most about." He further emphasizes that when he speaks, he ensures he "faithfully represents the people he serves."

Conclusion

The newly appointed Deputy Speaker, Mr. Sawen, articulates a vision for his role that prioritizes impartiality and fair presiding while maintaining his commitment to speaking on issues important to his constituents. His appointment is seen as a reflection of a modern parliament that balances new perspectives with established experience, aiming to ensure efficient and equitable parliamentary proceedings.