Margaret Wilson back in the Speaker's chair

Margaret Wilson

Labour MP Margaret Wilson has been re-elected as Speaker, but opposition parties have signalled she will not get an easy ride in the new Parliament.

She was elected New Zealand's first woman Speaker eight months ago and was given a torrid time by non-Government MPs, who tested the rules and her patience to the limit.

Under a deal thrashed out between Labour and the other parties, she was re-elected yesterday after she was the only MP nominated for the job.

As part of the arrangement, National list MP Clem Simich will take up the deputy role.

After her re-election, Margaret Wilson was led out to the chair by Labour's whips Tim Barnett and Darren Hughes - a tradition arising from the days when the Speaker had to be dragged into what was seen as an unpleasant and hazardous job.

She said it was the job of the Speaker to ensure Parliament was conducted in a fair and orderly manner and that was her intention.

Opposition MPs promised to hold her true to her word.

National leader Don Brash said the current make-up of Parliament was vastly different to the previous one. "It is a much more evenly divided Parliament. That will test your skills and your judgment."

Act leader Rodney Hide said that if such judgment was not exercised it could result in problems.

"It is important that the opposition parties in particular get a fair go, and, more particularly in this MMP era, that the small parties get a good go."

Margaret Wilson said the strength of New Zealand's parliamentary government was the way it responded to the will of the people.

New Zealanders were highly involved in parliamentary processes such as elections and select committees.

MPs were also aware of the high level of trust placed on them.

Prime Minister Helen Clark said Margaret Wilson had achieved her position on merit.

"In the few months you served as Speaker in the last Parliament you did gain the respect of members, I believe across the parties, as a firm but fair chair of the business of the House.

"That has played no small part in the unanimous support for your re-election today."

- NZPA