The Speaker granted leave of absence to the Member for St. Ann’s East (April 24-May 10),and to the Members for Point Fortin, Laventille East/Morvant, Laventille West, Diego Martin Central and Fyzabad (today’s sitting).

The Precursor Chemicals (No.2) Bill, 2014, was brought from the Senate and read a first time in the House.

Seven Questions qualify for oral response. See the Order Paper.

The Leader of the Opposition moved a privilege Motion based on comments made by the Minister of Energy and Energy Affairs at a previous sitting of the House while responding to a question concerning the salary of a former executive official of PETROTRIN. The Speaker indicated that he would rule at a subsequent sitting.

The Leader of the Opposition moved a Motion asking the House to express its lack of confidence in the Minister of Finance and the Economy. The Minister of Finance then rose to respond, followed by the Member for Diego Martin North/East, the Minister of Works and Infrastructure and the Member for Chaguanas West. Debate on the Motion was then suspended.

The Prime Minister raised a Motion of privilege against statements made by the Leader of the Opposition. The Speaker indicated that he would rule on the matter at the next sitting of the House.

At the next sitting, debate is expected to begin on the Precursor Chemicals (No.2) Bill, 2014, continue on the Motion of no confidence in the Leader of the Opposition, and continue on the Motion to adopt the 36th Report of the Ombudsman. The sitting ended at 6:31 p.m.