Speakers

The Speaker of the House of Assembly is the presiding officer elected by Members at the beginning of each parliamentary term. As the impartial guardian of parliamentary procedure, the Speaker chairs all Assembly sittings, maintains order during debates, and ensures the rules of procedure are properly followed. The Speaker determines when Members may speak, rules on points of order, and has authority to discipline Members who breach parliamentary standards. Beyond the chamber, the Speaker schedules Assembly meetings, approves parliamentary rules, grants permission for urgent debates and ministerial statements, and oversees the administrative functions of the Assembly. The Speaker does not participate in debates or vote on matters before the House, except to exercise a casting vote when votes are equally divided. Through these functions, the Speaker ensures the House of Assembly operates effectively, fairly, and in accordance with Anguilla's Constitution.