“I want briefly to address the statement that
was issued by the Speaker of the House yesterday. Before I do that, I
wish to express my deep regret and that of the Government at this
most unfortunate incident and to extend our support to the lady that
has suffered injury and distress as a result. She deserves our
support. I want her to know that everyone in the Government wishes
her a speedy recovery.

“I appreciate the candour of the Speaker’s
statement and his recognition that he has problems with which he
needs to deal. Therefore, the most important immediate issue is for
the Speaker to seek the treatment that he references in his
statement. I and all in my Government will do all we can to help in
his efforts to access appropriate professional help at this time.

“I also recognise that the incident that
occurred over the weekend will have consequences. The police
investigation is under way and I have confidence in them to carry
that out thoroughly and effectively. I am currently in London and the
Speaker will arrive here tomorrow. I will be sitting down with him to
discuss his statement and the efforts to deal with his problems and
to talk about the actions that need to be taken as a consequence of
the incident itself.”