Parliament’s Privileges Committee has found Green MP Julie Anne Genter in contempt for “intimidating” National MP Matt Doocey during a debate in May.
Genter apologised in Parliament for the outburst after she walked across the chamber towards Doocey, and waved a report in his face while yelling, “Read the report”.
The Privileges Committee reviewed video and audio footage of the incident and received written comments from Genter, who acknowledged her behaviour was “unparliamentary and disruptive.”
The committee found that Genter’s actions could be seen as intimidating and therefore constituted a contempt of the House.
The committee said that while vigorous exchanges are part of parliamentary debate, Genter’s behaviour was unprofessional and unacceptable.
The committee has recommended that Genter be censured by the House and that she issue an unreserved apology.