The Opposition PNM yesterday failed to respond to Attorney General Anand Ramlogan’s repeated challenges for the PNM to pledge support to legislation to abolish appeals to the Privy Council, after which the Government would present the bill in 48 hours. Ramlogan issued the challenge more than three times to the PNM calling for an answer, there in the Senate yesterday
The planned legislation is to abolish appeals to the Privy Council, and cede jurisdiction in criminal matters to the Caribbean Court of Justice. Ramlogan’s call came after saying the Government is examining amendments on the issue. He said this required a three-quarters vote for Lower House passage and a two-thirds majority vote for Upper House passage.
He said legal opinions were sought and while there was a divergence of views, it was ascertained there were no legal obstacles to the process. He said the matter is being examined by his division. PNM senators then launched queries on various aspects of his answers. But Ramlogan said if the Opposition was prepared to say on the public record when they would support the Government in the issue, he would respond immediately and prepare the bill within 48 hours. PNM senators didn’t answer, but continued questioning him.
Ramlogan said the PNM had to state its support without condition. The Opposition didn’t respond.